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Operation SHIELD: India's Comprehensive Civil Defence Mock Drills Rescheduled for May 31 Amid Escalating Border Tensions

In response to heightened security concerns along its western and eastern frontiers, the Indian government has rescheduled its extensive civil defence exercise, codenamed Operation SHIELD, to May 31, 2025. Initially slated for May 29, the drills were postponed due to administrative reasons. The exercise aims to bolster emergency preparedness across several border states, including Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Jammu & Kashmir, and the Union Territory of Chandigarh.


The mock drills in states bordering Pakistan were earlier scheduled for Wednesday, may 29 before getting postponedImage Source : AP | Firstpost
The mock drills in states bordering Pakistan were earlier scheduled for Wednesday, may 29 before getting postponedImage Source : AP | Firstpost

Background: Rising Tensions and the Need for Preparedness

The rescheduling of Operation SHIELD comes in the wake of escalating tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which resulted in the death of 26 civilians. In retaliation, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. These events have underscored the imperative for heightened security measures and emergency preparedness across vulnerable regions.


Scope and Objectives of Operation SHIELD

Operation SHIELD is a comprehensive civil defence mock drill designed to simulate wartime emergencies and assess the readiness of various agencies and the civilian population. Key components of the exercise include:


  • Blackout Simulations: Controlled power outages near critical installations to test response protocols.

  • Air Raid Siren Tests: Activation of sirens to simulate aerial threats and evaluate public response.

  • Evacuation Drills: Coordinated evacuation procedures to assess efficiency and effectiveness.

  • Rapid Rescue Operations: Deployment of emergency services to simulate rescue scenarios.

  • Inter-Agency Coordination: Collaboration among the army, police, civil defence volunteers, and other agencies to ensure seamless operations.


These drills aim to enhance the nation's preparedness against potential threats, ensuring a swift and coordinated response in actual emergencies.


Participation and Implementation

The Ministry of Home Affairs has mandated the participation of various states and Union Territories bordering Pakistan in the Operation SHIELD drills. The exercise will see the involvement of civil defence volunteers, National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme (NSS), Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS), and Bharat Scouts and Guides. A notable feature includes a 15-minute controlled blackout near vital installations at 8 PM, excluding essential services like hospitals and police stations.


Strategic Significance

The drills are part of a broader initiative, Operation Abhyaas, which encompasses nationwide emergency preparedness exercises. These initiatives reflect India's commitment to strengthening its civil defence mechanisms and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens amid evolving geopolitical challenges.


Conclusion

Operation SHIELD represents a proactive approach by the Indian government to fortify its emergency response capabilities. By conducting these comprehensive drills, India aims to ensure that its agencies and citizens are well-prepared to handle potential threats, thereby reinforcing national security and resilience.


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