India is going to conduct nationwide mock drills on Wednesday amid growing fears of military action after the terror attack in Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir last month that killed 26 civilians. These exercises are part of a comprehensive civil security initiative spread across 244 districts across the country. On Monday, the Home Ministry directed all states and Union Territories to be prepared for the exercises – the first of its kind since 1971. Trial runs were also carried out at several locations on Tuesday to test the readiness of air raid sirens and other emergency systems.
A mock drill is a simulated training exercise designed to test preparedness for real emergencies. These are important in improving preparedness to deal with incidents such as fire, natural disasters, medical emergencies or security threats.
During a mock drill, participants follow emergency protocols as if the situation is real. The aim is to ensure that everyone knows what to do if an actual crisis arises.
Where will the mock drill take place? The Home Ministry has listed 244 civil defence locations, of which over 100 will receive special attention as these have been identified as high-risk areas. West Bengal has the highest number of 32 civil defence districts, followed by Rajasthan with 28 and Assam, Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir with 20 each. These districts have been designated based on their threat assessment level. States and Union Territories have been asked to switch on air raid warning sirens and implement crash blackout measures in select areas. Besides, citizens will be trained on safety protocols to be followed during an air or ground attack. The Home Ministry’s mock drill will also test communication systems like hotlines and radio links with the Indian Air Force. The functionality of the control room and backup rooms will also be checked. Citizens, including students, will be trained on how to protect themselves in case of an attack. The exercise will also check whether critical facilities can be quickly evacuated and the preparedness of emergency services such as firefighters, rescue teams and supply depots. The exercise is also planned to test and review evacuation plans.