A second phase of the mock drill, codenamed ‘Operation Shield’, is scheduled for Saturday, May 31, across five key states. This follows the first phase held on May 7, just ahead of the launch of Operation Sindoor in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The exercise aims to bolster preparedness in vulnerable regions near the Line of Control. Operation Shield was planned following rising tensions with Pakistan after the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 people. In retaliation, India carried out Operation Sindoor on May 7, striking terror camps at nine locations across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Which states will go for the second phase of mockdrill and blackouts? What will be evaluated? We have all the answers for you!
Drill To Be Conducted In 5 Major States
‘Operation Shield’ will be conducted in Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir, Gujarat, Haryana, and Rajasthan. The civil defence mock drill was originally scheduled for Thursday, across multiple border states and Union Territories, later it was later postponed due to administrative reasons. Drill is scheduled to be conducted across districts bordering Pakistan on 31 May from 5:00 PM onwards. According to a notice released, The notice noted that several shortcomings were observed in the previous exercise and this drill is a step to fill the critical gaps and “augment the Civil Defence preparedness against the hostile attack.”
Umesh Sharma, civil defence assistant director general, said in the release: “It is requested to plan and organise the Civil Defence Exercise ‘Operation Shield’ on May 31 at 5 pm onwards (the exact time may be suited as per local convenience) by involving all local administration and stakeholders. An action taken report in this regard may be shared with this directorate.”
Who All Will Participate In The Mock Drill?
The mock drill will include civil defence wardens, local volunteers, and youth organisations like NCC, NSS, NYKS, and Bharat Scouts & Guides. They will take part in safety steps meant to prepare for possible dangers like attacks from enemy planes, drones, or missiles.
As part of the civil defence preparedness exercise, authorities will activate hotlines connecting the Air Force and Civil Defence Control Rooms (RCDCC/SCDCC/TCDCCs). Additionally, centrally controlled and operated air raid sirens will be sounded to simulate real-time emergency scenarios.
Black Outs
Complete blackout measures will be imposed in “adjoining civilian VA/VPs, excluding emergency/critical services during the mock drills. A controlled blackout of 15 minutes will be observed from 8 pm to 8.15 pm near vital installations, except essential emergency services such as hospitals, fire stations, and police stations.
