• Source:JND

Mock Drill May 29: The government will carry out a large-scale civil defence drill named Operation Shield across border states and Union Territories on Thursday to prepare for potential wartime threats such as air raids, drone strikes and missile attacks. The mock exercise will begin at 5 PM in areas adjoining the western border — including Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana and Chandigarh.

According to officials from the Directorate General of Fire Services, Civil Defence and Home Guards, all local administrations have been directed to participate in the drill, which will involve various departments and community volunteers. The move follows the earlier nationwide mock exercise, Operation Sindoor, held earlier this month to enhance emergency preparedness across the country.

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The second phase of the drill, Operation Shield, will focus on silent recalls of civil defence wardens and volunteers, testing response mechanisms and simulating different emergency scenarios.

Rajasthan Mock Drill On May 29

In Rajasthan, the exercise will be organised in four districts that lie along the international border — Jaisalmer, Barmer, Bikaner and Sri Ganganagar. District Collector of Barmer, Tina Dabi, confirmed that sirens will be sounded and emergency systems activated during the drill. Preparations are already underway, with officials sending necessary instructions to local bodies. In Jaisalmer, authorities are yet to finalise the exact locations and timings, which will be decided in an upcoming meeting.

Gujarat Mock Drill On Thursday

In Gujarat, the drill will be held across all districts. Under the direction of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and following central government guidelines, mock exercises will be conducted to boost the state’s preparedness in case of attacks. Officials reviewed readiness through virtual meetings on Wednesday to ensure smooth execution.

Haryana Mock Drill

Haryana will also see Operation Shield rolled out in all 22 districts. As per officials from the state’s Home Department, the exercise will run between 5 PM and 9 PM. It aims to test coordination between the administration, armed forces and civil defence volunteers.

A brief blackout will be observed from 8 PM to 8:15 PM near critical infrastructure, although emergency services like hospitals and police stations will remain functional.

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Mock Drill In Border States

Volunteers from various youth groups, including NCC, NSS, Bharat Scouts and Guides, and NYKS, will take part. These individuals will assist in carrying out defence measures and help local authorities manage the simulated emergencies.

Officials stated that the drill comes amid growing concerns over national security and aims to identify weaknesses in the current system while strengthening response strategies.