India is preparing to conduct its largest civil defence drills since the 1971 Indo-Pak war, amid rising tensions with Pakistan following the April 22 terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The nationwide mock drills, set for May 7, will take place at 259 locations across 33 states and union territories. Their goal is to train civilians in air raid response, mass evacuation, and bunker safety—a rare move in a country not accustomed to wartime scenarios on the civilian front.
Preparations across India began on May 6, with state disaster teams, police, NDRF, SDRF, hospitals, fire services, and civilian volunteers rehearsing coordinated emergency responses. During the drills, air raid sirens will simulate an attack. Civilians will be instructed to seek shelter in basements, subways, or sturdy structures. When a second siren is heard, signaling an "all-clear" or the rescue phase, participants will rise and help “injured” civilians as part of the simulation.
In Jammu and Kashmir, one of the most sensitive regions, drills have already been conducted. On the Jhelum River, rescue units practiced saving potential drowning victims, while schoolchildren were trained on recognizing sirens and taking immediate shelter. The goal is to spread awareness, especially among children, who can then inform their families.
In Lucknow, civil defence volunteers simulated fire emergencies, practiced using blankets to douse flames, and carried “injured” participants on their backs. Three sessions, each lasting 3–4 hours, focused on building speed and coordination. Rehearsals emphasized real-world urgency—how to react during a missile, rocket, or drone strike, and how to sustain oneself during blackouts.
Citizens have been advised to prepare emergency kits including:
-
A torch with extra batteries
-
Water bottles and non-perishable food
-
A first aid kit
-
Emergency cash, in case digital services fail
Security across the National Capital Region (NCR) has also been ramped up. Day and night patrols are underway in areas like India Gate, Connaught Place, and Janpath, with special attention to rental and unregistered vehicles. Vehicle checks and security alerts have been increased as a precautionary step.
The Ministry of External Affairs and the Union Home Ministry have both emphasized that these drills are precautionary but vital, especially in light of increased ceasefire violations along the LoC and threats of escalation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vowed justice for the Pahalgam attack, while Pakistan has warned that any Indian military action would prompt a firm response, further amplifying tensions.
