In response to escalating tensions following the April 22, 2025, terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, India will conduct a nationwide civil defence drill on May 7, 2025. Spanning 259 districts, this is the largest such exercise since the 1971 India-Pakistan war, aimed at preparing for war-like scenarios.

Strategic Context

Pahalgam Attack and Geopolitical Tensions

The drill follows the April 22, 2025, attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 people, including tourists and a local ponywallah. Attributed to cross-border terrorism, it has heightened India-Pakistan tensions. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) cites “new and complex threats,” including cyberattacks and drone-based attacks, as per intelligence inputs reported by The Hindu (May 6, 2025).

A high-level review on May 6, chaired by Union Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla, assessed infrastructure readiness. The drill, authorized under the Civil Defence Rules, 1968, builds on initiatives like the 2022 ‘Chintan Shivir’ and a 2023 MHA directive for border and coastal preparedness.

Drill Objectives

The exercise aims to enhance preparedness through:

Air Raid Warning Systems

Sirens will activate at 7:30 PM IST across 259 districts, coordinated by the Indian Air Force (IAF). Satellite-based communications will ensure alerts reach remote areas, addressing gaps from a 2023 audit.

Blackout and Camouflage

A 30-minute blackout from 8:00 PM to 8:30 PM IST will reduce infrastructure visibility. Camouflage protocols will protect nuclear plants, military bases, and dams, using netting and smoke screens.

Civilian Training

Over 10 million civilians, including 2 million students, will train in self-protection, guided by the “Civil Defence India” app and volunteers from NCC, NSS, and ABVP.

Evacuation and Shelters

Drills will test evacuation to 1,200 shelters and 5,000 trenches. Hospitals in 50 cities will practice mass casualty management.

Coordination

Control rooms, radio communications, and inter-agency response will be tested, involving civil defence volunteers, home guards, and SDRF.

259
Districts Covered
10M+
Civilians Involved
1,200
Shelters Prepared
50,000
Personnel in UP

Regional Focus and Impact

Border states (J&K, Punjab, Rajasthan) and coastal regions (Tamil Nadu, Odisha) are prioritized. Urban centers like Delhi and Mumbai will see major drills. Temporary disruptions include:

  • Power outages (8:00 PM–8:30 PM IST)
  • Traffic restrictions (7:00 PM–9:00 PM IST)
  • Restricted access to airports and stations
Public Advisory
Stay calm and follow instructions via All India Radio, Doordarshan, or the “Civil Defence India” app. Emergency helplines (100, 112) remain active.

Public and Official Response

Union Home Minister Amit Shah called the drill “a testament to India’s resolve.” UP DGP Prashant Kumar confirmed 50,000 personnel for Uttar Pradesh’s 7:00 PM–9:00 PM exercise. Karnataka’s drills extend to May 14.

Historical and Global Context

This is India’s first nationwide drill since 1971. Globally, Japan (2023) and Sweden (2022) have conducted similar exercises amid regional threats, reflecting a trend toward hybrid warfare preparedness.

The May 7, 2025, civil defence drill is a critical step in India’s security strategy. By testing warning systems, blackout protocols, and civilian readiness, it aims to build resilience. Public cooperation is vital for success.

Citizens are urged to stay informed and participate actively. The drill underscores India’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty amid rising tensions.

Civil Defence National Security India-Pakistan Emergency Preparedness