Operation Abhyas: Karnataka at risk after Operation Sindoor

Post the sensational Operation Sindoor, a military operation aimed at attacking terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. India conducted Operation Abhyas, a nationwide civil defence exercise to prepare civilians for emergency scenarios. Karnataka, a state with vital defence installations and a record of terror attacks, has been put on high alert.

Background: Operation Sindoor

Operation Sindoor was carried out in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack, which took 26 lives. The Indian Armed Forces launched precision attacks on nine terror camps with minimal civilian casualties. Political leaders all over India welcomed the operation, including Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who labeled it a “warning bell for Pakistan”.

Karnataka’s Vulnerability
Karnataka has seen several terror attacks in the past, such as the Rameshwaram Café blast (2024), Church Street blast (2014), Malleswaram blasts (2013), and IISc attack (2005). Bengaluru, the IT hub of India, has sensitive defence establishments, and hence it is a likely target. The state government has stressed the requirement for increased security measures.

Operation Abhyas: Civil Defence Preparedness

Under Operation Abhyas, the state of Karnataka held mock rehearsals to be better prepared during emergencies. Some of the practices involved:

Simulation of blackouts to ready the civilians for impending air raids.

Rescue processes with fire and emergency departments.

Evacuations at high-risk areas such as Chinnaswamy Stadium, which is a past target.

Government Response and Public Awareness
Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara emphasized the need for civil defence training, saying that “India may go to war, or Pakistan may strike us. The shadow of war looms”. The government has ordered civil defence forces to help the military secure public life and keep essential services going.

With hostilities rising after Operation Sindoor, Karnataka is on its toes. Operation Abhyas is an important step towards making civilians prepared and strengthening national security. The state government keeps a keen eye on emerging threats while asking citizens to be alert.

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