- By Shubham Bajpai
- Tue, 06 May 2025 09:39 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
The Central government is set to organise an extensive mock drill in 244 identified civil defence districts across the country on May 7, 2025. The aim of this mock drill is to test the general public's effectiveness and swiftness in responding during war-like situations, such as missile attacks or air strikes.
The Home Ministry issued instructions to all states and union territories on Monday for this national-level drill to be held on May 7. As per the law, such an exercise comes under the Civil Defence Rules, 1968.
Why is mock drill necessary?
The mock drill will simulate real-life scenarios, with air raid sirens sounding, power outages in cities, people practising taking shelter, and emergency services responding quickly.
The purpose of this exercise is to prepare people for any contingency so as to avoid panic, reduce chaos, and save lives during an emergency.
The mock drills with blackout and sirens are reminiscent of the Cold War era when global tensions were running high. However, the heightened tensions between India and Pakistan have once again made them important.
Who will participate in it?
Local administration, Civil Defence Wardens, Home Guards, National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme (NSS), Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS) and school-college students will take part in this mock drill.
The exercise is also significant in augmenting cordiality between the armed forces and civilians in the wake of rising tensions for a pre-attack awareness.
Activities in drill
-Sirens will be tested in sensitive areas and institutions to alert the public in case of an attack.
-Workshops will be held in schools, offices, and community centers to teach people drop-and-cover, finding nearby shelters, first aid, and mental management.
-Sudden power cuts will be carried out to hide the city from the enemy's sight in case of an air raid at night. This technique was last used during the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971.
-Strategic buildings such as military bases, communication towers, and power plants will be masked to avoid satellite or aerial surveillance.
-Evacuation drills at high-risk areas will be conducted in which people will be moved to safer areas so that obstacles that may arise in a real situation can be identified.
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