In the wake of rising tensions with Pakistan, civil defense mock drills are being conducted across the country on May 7 under the orders of the Union Home Ministry. In this drill, which will be held in 259 districts, training will be given on issuing warnings through sirens and precautions to be taken during enemy attacks. This is the first time that a civil mock drill of this scale is being conducted across the country after 1971. It is being held in the cities of Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam in the Telugu states.
The drill is being conducted in about 259 districts across the country. These districts have been divided into three categories. There are 13 districts in Category 1, 201 in Category 2, and 45 in Category 3. The mock drill includes activities such as implementing crash and blackout procedures, immediately covering key facilities from being affected by enemy attacks, and preparing defense strategies.
Civil Defense Mock Drill is a preparation. It is conducted to test the preparedness of citizens and government machinery during wars, missile attacks, or air strikes. The Center announced this on May 2 as per the Civil Defense Rules of 1968. The last time this drill was conducted was during the 1971 Bangladesh War. After that, this is the first drill to be conducted at this level across the country. Tensions between India and Pakistan have once again reached a peak with the Pahalgam terror attack. With this, if an unexpected situation arises, this drill will be useful for taking self-defense measures without getting worried. At the same time, India launched a lightning attack on Pakistan under the name of Operation Sindoor.
There will be power outages, sirens, blackouts, and emergency evacuations. There will also be traffic diversions, and police, fire, and medical teams will be involved.
Civil Defence wardens, Home Guards, NCC cadets, NSS volunteers, Nehru Yuva Kendra (NYKS) members, schools and college students will participate.
Respond only to official announcements (TV, radio, government websites) and remain calm. Follow the instructions of police and civil defense personnel. Stay away from specially identified problem areas. Prepare an emergency kit of drinking water and basic medicines.
Training of civilians and students during enemy attacks, observation of the functioning of control rooms and support centers. Evaluation of the functioning of air raid warning systems. Communication link test with the Indian Air Force, screening of key institutions, implementation of crash and blackout procedures, examination of the efficiency of services like fire fighting, rescue, etc. Reduces fear and increases awareness.
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