Amid heightened tensions with Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 Indian tourists, the Government of India has announced a nationwide civil defence mock drill on May 7, 2025. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has instructed 244 districts to conduct the exercise, which will include blackout simulations, air raid sirens, evacuation drills, and public training sessions to prepare for war-like emergencies.

Civil Defence Mock drill planned amid heightened border tensions

Mock drill is planned by Indian authorities to test civilian readiness. Officials clarified that the drill is not a signal of immediate conflict but part of broader civil defence efforts. This exercise falls under the Civil Defence Rules, 1968, and was communicated by the MHA on May 2.

What is a civil defence mock drill?

A civil defence mock drill is a preparedness exercise aimed at testing how civilians and government systems respond during emergencies like war, missile attacks, or aerial strikes. The drills recreate real-life scenarios — air raid sirens go off, lights are turned off across cities, civilians practice sheltering procedures, and emergency teams operate in real time. These drills aim to reduce panic, avoid confusion, and save lives by increasing awareness and readiness.

Drills based on Cold War-era methods

Civil defence measures like these were commonly used during the Cold War. At that time, countries prepared for possible air raids and nuclear attacks by running blackout and evacuation drills. With renewed tensions and security risks, these measures are being revived in India.

What people may experience during mock drill blackouts on May 7

During the drill, you may experience temporary blackouts, suspension of mobile signals, or traffic diversions. Authorities may also conduct evacuation exercises or hold public announcements. In some areas, police and paramilitary forces may simulate a war-like emergency.

Things to remember during the Civil Defence mock drill or Blackout

• Stay calm and follow local instructions

• Keep basic supplies like water, medicines, and flashlights ready

• Avoid sharing rumours or unverified news on social media

• Do not panic if power or internet goes down briefly

• Listen to radio or government channels for official updates

What the civil defence mock drill on May 7 means for the public

The government wants people to treat this as a preparedness exercise. It is not a sign of panic. The drill allows both the authorities and the public to understand their roles better. Officials are expected to assess the outcome and make improvements if needed.

What will happen during mock drill on May 7?

On May 7, the drills will be carried out across officially notified Civil Defence districts in coordination with state and district authorities. Participants will include Civil Defence wardens, Home Guards, National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers, Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS) members, and students from schools and colleges.

Citizens may experience short-term power cuts, blackout simulations, loud sirens, and restricted access to certain public areas. Traffic may also be diverted temporarily in some cities. These are part of a controlled exercise and not actual threats.

Breakdown of civil defence mock drill activities

Air Raid Sirens Sirens will be activated to test public alert systems. These serve as warnings in case of incoming aerial threats, allowing people time to take cover.

Crash Blackouts Cities may switch off visible lights to mimic blackout conditions used during wars. This reduces the risk of detection during night-time airstrikes. India last used this method extensively in 1971.

Camouflage Exercises Critical installations — including communication towers, power plants, and military areas — will undergo camouflage operations to test concealment techniques from aerial or satellite monitoring.

Evacuation Drills Authorities will simulate evacuations from high-risk zones to safer locations. These drills help identify logistical issues and improve response time.

Civilian Training Sessions Schools, colleges, offices, and community centres will host awareness sessions. These will teach people how to find shelter, use basic first aid, and stay calm during emergencies.

Who will conduct the Civil Defence Mock Drill on May 27?

The Ministry of Home Affairs has instructed every participating district and state to involve a wide range of personnel and volunteers:

• District Authorities for coordination

• Home Guards and Civil Defence Wardens for ground operations

• NCC, NSS, NYKS volunteers, and students for awareness and support roles

After the drill, each state and union territory must submit an "Action Taken Report" documenting the event, response gaps, and recommendations.

Early blackout drills already underway

Some areas have already begun similar exercises. On Sunday evening, Ferozepur Cantonment in Punjab held a 30-minute blackout drill. Located near the India-Pakistan border, the area is among those on high alert. The drill served as a preview of the upcoming nationwide exercise.

Policy roots and long-term planning

This move is aligned with the Centre’s long-term strategy to boost civil preparedness. The renewed push began at the 'Chintan Shivir' in October 2022, where top leaders stressed the need for nationwide readiness. A follow-up letter from the Union Home Secretary in January 2023 called for strengthening civil defence, particularly in border and coastal regions.

India’s civil defence drill on May 7 is a planned measure aimed at improving national readiness. While the context is serious, the intention is precautionary. Public cooperation and awareness are key to making such drills effective and meaningful.