India is set to conduct its first nationwide mock drill since the 1971 India-Pakistan war This historic drill will span across all states and union territories, engaging the Indian Armed Forces, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), police departments, fire services, medical teams, and local administration units. The goal is to assess India’s preparedness for multi-layered emergencies, including wartime scenarios, natural disasters, terror threats, and large-scale evacuations.
Why Is This Mock Drill So Important?
This drill is more than just a formality — it reflects a renewed focus on national security and disaster readiness amid rising global tensions and internal vulnerabilities. Here’s why it matters:
1. First Since the 1971 War
This is the largest coordinated emergency exercise in over five decades, making it a significant national event. The last comparable mobilization occurred during wartime.
2. Integrated Civil-Military Operations
The mock drill promotes better synergy between defense and civilian authorities, which is critical in real conflict or disaster scenarios.
3. Testing Response to Multiple Threats
From chemical attacks to earthquakes, cyber threats, and terrorist infiltration, this drill covers a wide spectrum of modern challenges.
What Will Happen During the Drill?
The nationwide mock drill will follow a multi-phase approach:
🔹 Simulated Air-Raid and Evacuation Alerts
Public spaces and sensitive locations will undergo mock air-raid sirens, evacuation drills, and curfew scenarios.
🔹 Disaster Response Testing
The NDRF and emergency services will respond to simulated earthquakes, fires, and building collapses, especially in metro areas.
🔹 Medical Emergency Management
Hospitals will simulate mass casualty events, triage protocols, and ambulance coordination.
🔹 State Border Security Checks
Border states will test intrusion detection, counter-terrorism procedures, and refugee control simulations.
🔹 Cybersecurity Exercises
Critical infrastructure like power grids, communication towers, and banking systems will undergo cyberattack drills.
Who Is Participating?
This all-India exercise includes:
- Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force
- National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)
- Central and State Police Forces
- Fire and Rescue Services
- Indian Railways and Airport Authorities
- State Health Departments
- Municipal Corporations
- Intelligence Agencies
Government Instructions for the Public
The Ministry of Home Affairs has released a public advisory urging citizens to:
- Stay calm and follow official instructions
- Avoid spreading rumors or misinformation on social media
- Participate in drills where requested (especially schools, offices, and residential societies)
- Keep emergency contact numbers accessible
