India Orders Nationwide Civil Defence Drills Amid Pakistan Missile Tests
In the wake of a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, which claimed the lives of 26 Indian tourists, India is set to conduct nationwide civil defence mock drills on May 7, 2025. This sweeping preparedness move reflects growing tensions with Pakistan and comes as part of broader emergency protocols initiated by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
The MHA has directed all states to implement strategic preparedness measures such as:
- Air raid warning sirens
- Simulated crash blackouts
- Civilian emergency training
- Camouflage of vital installations
These drills aim to bolster India’s readiness in the event of further escalations.
Pakistan’s Missile Tests Raise Regional Alarm
Pakistan recently test-fired two surface-to-surface missiles—the short-range Fatah and medium-range Abdali—with operational ranges of 120 km and 450 km, respectively. Both tests occurred within a 48-hour window, signaling heightened military preparedness and provoking alarm across the border.
Indian defence analysts perceive these launches as strategic messaging intended to showcase Pakistan’s readiness in a conflict scenario.
India’s Military Responds with Exercise Aakraman
In response, the Indian Armed Forces initiated ‘Exercise Aakraman’, a high-intensity military drill that included:
- Rafale and Su-30MKI fighter jet operations
- Deployment of S-400 air defense systems
- Anti-ship strike simulations by the Indian Navy
India has also suspended diplomatic and economic ties with Pakistan, including airspace and trade restrictions, as part of its broader countermeasures.
Blackout Drill Conducted in Firozpur Cantonment
On May 4, 2025, Firozpur Cantonment in Punjab conducted a 30-minute blackout drill. At 9:00 PM, power was cut across the area by the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL), affecting 60,000 residents.
The drill included:
- Complete suspension of electricity
- Blackout enforcement across households and businesses
- Siren warnings and halted traffic for realism
Authorities such as Deputy Commissioner Deepshikha Sharma emphasized the drill as a routine but crucial emergency readiness measure, drawing parallels to historical war-time drills.
Security Forces on Alert: Leaves Cancelled, Surveillance Intensified
In the current climate of heightened alert, several key security measures have been enacted:
- Cancellation of leaves for police and military personnel across Punjab
- Suspicion of cross-border drone activity carrying weapons and narcotics
- Increased surveillance along the Indo-Pak border
- Enhanced deployment of Army and paramilitary forces in Jammu & Kashmir
While there is no direct confirmation about leaves being canceled in arms production factories, defense manufacturing staff typically remain on duty during such high-security periods to maintain uninterrupted operational capacity.
Diplomatic Channels Open, But Situation Remains Tense
Despite the rising hostilities, diplomatic engagement continues. Iran’s Foreign Minister has visited Pakistan and is scheduled to arrive in India as part of a mediation initiative. The United Nations Security Council is also planning closed-door consultations.
Meanwhile, global powers including the U.S., China, and Russia have urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation.
Conclusion: A Nation on Alert
India’s upcoming civil defence drills, blackout exercises, and military mobilization reflect a strategic posture of preparedness and deterrence. While diplomatic efforts offer a glimmer of hope, the nation remains on high alert, with security protocols in full effect to safeguard civilians and critical infrastructure.
References
- On May 05 2025, India Orders Mock Drills As Pakistan Test-Fires Missiles, FirstPost
- On May 05 2025, MHA asks several states to hold mock drills on Wednesday amid Pak tensions, Business Standard
