India to Conduct Nationwide Civil Defence Mock Drill on May 7 Amid Heightened India-Pakistan Tensions

New Delhi | May 6 — In the wake of rising tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 Indian tourists dead, the Government of India has announced a large-scale civil defence mock drill scheduled for May 7, 2025. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has instructed 244 districts across the country to participate in a coordinated emergency preparedness exercise simulating war-like scenarios.

The drill, aimed at testing civilian and administrative readiness during national emergencies, will include simulated blackouts, air raid sirens, evacuation drills, and public awareness sessions. According to officials, this is a precautionary exercise and should not be interpreted as an indication of imminent conflict.

Purpose of the Drill

A civil defence mock drill is designed to assess how both civilians and government agencies respond during scenarios such as missile strikes, air raids, or wartime emergencies. The May 7 exercise will involve key preparedness components such as power outages, restricted communications, and mock evacuations to identify response gaps and streamline coordination efforts.

Authorities have emphasized that the primary goal is to promote public safety, reduce panic during real emergencies, and raise awareness of basic survival protocols.

Mock Drill Activities to Expect on May 7

During the drill, citizens in participating districts may experience:

• Temporary power outages to simulate blackout conditions

• Activation of air raid sirens

• Suspension of mobile networks in select areas

• Evacuation drills from designated high-risk zones

• Traffic diversions and restricted access to public spaces

• Awareness sessions in schools, offices, and community centres

Government forces including Civil Defence wardens, Home Guards, NCC cadets, NSS volunteers, and Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS) members will assist in carrying out the drill. Students and local residents will also be briefed on sheltering strategies, basic first aid, and staying calm during emergencies.