In the wake of the Pahalgam terrorist attack and growing tensions between India and Pakistan, the Ministry of Home Affairs has directed several states to organize a civil defense drill on May 7 (Wednesday). Government sources shared this directive.
According to these sources, the drill will include the sounding of air raid warnings. Citizens and students will receive training on self-protection during potential hostile encounters.
Along with the drill, there will be provisions for blackout simulations and strategic camouflage for key infrastructures and institutions.
States have been urged to update and rehearse their evacuation plans to enable immediate response in emergencies. This exercise aims to bolster the nation's internal security and preparedness for emergencies.
The advisory for such a drill has been issued amidst continuous cross-border shelling from Pakistan. For the past 11 nights, Pakistan's military has engaged in unprovoked firing across the Line of Control (LoC), prompting a firm response from the Indian Army.
This situation developed after Pakistan-backed militants attacked tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu, and Kashmir on April 22, resulting in 26 casualties, including a Nepali citizen. It is the deadliest attack in Kashmir Valley since the Pulwama incident in 2019. With concerns over India's potential retaliatory actions, Pakistan has bolstered its defenses, reinforced border posts, and commenced missile tests.
