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MHA Directs States to Conduct Civil Defence Mock Drills Amid India-Pakistan Tensions

Government sources stated on Monday that the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has instructed several states to conduct comprehensive civil defense mock drills on May 7, Wednesday, in the midst of ongoing heightened tensions with Pakistan. The purpose of these drills is to test preparedness and raise public awareness in the event of a hostile attack. A variety of essential preparedness measures will be the focus of the drills. These include making air raid warning sirens work and teaching people, including students, important civil defense techniques. The objective is to provide them with the knowledge necessary to defend themselves in emergency situations like hostile incidents or aerial strikes. Additionally, the exercise will simulate a power outage to reduce visibility during potential air raids by implementing crash blackout measures. As part of the preparedness effort, authorities have been instructed to ensure the early camouflage of crucial installations and strategic infrastructure. In addition, in order to guarantee a swift and orderly response in the event of an emergency, the drills will include rehearsing and updating evacuation strategies. The MHA has emphasised the importance of coordinated participation from local authorities, educational institutions, and civil defence personnel to ensure the effectiveness of the nationwide drill. Following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22 that resulted in the deaths of 25 tourists and one local Kashmiri, the directive comes amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan.The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has instructed several states to hold civil defense mock drills on May 7 in response to the rising tensions between India and Pakistan. The directive aims to ensure public safety and enhance preparedness for hostile attacks.