Amid escalating tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad following 'Operation Sindoor', the Indian government has scheduled large-scale mock drills across key border states and union territories. The mock drills will take place on Thursday, May 29, in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, Jammu and Kashmir, and Chandigarh, under the umbrella of Operation Shield.
These exercises are aimed at enhancing civil preparedness and response in the event of cross-border attacks, especially in light of the recent four-day flare-up along the India-Pakistan border. Punjab will conduct its mock drills on June 3.
Gujarat:
Mock drills will be conducted in all districts of the state. Each district will host 2–3 simulation sites to train locals on how to respond during air strikes. The government will also register civil defence volunteers via an official portal.
Haryana:
Chief Minister Naib Singh Saini noted that this is the first such large-scale drill since 1971, and it is part of efforts to raise public awareness during national security threats. A complete blackout will be observed in designated areas from 8:00 PM to 8:15 PM, excluding emergency and essential services.
Rajasthan:
District Collector of Barmer, IAS officer Tina Dabi, confirmed that drills will be held in border districts as per directives from the Central Government.
Jammu & Kashmir and Chandigarh:
Both regions will also participate in the coordinated nationwide simulation to assess emergency response capabilities in high-risk zones.
The mock drills will simulate airstrike scenarios and test the readiness of local authorities, civil defence teams, and the general public. Residents in the affected areas have been urged to cooperate fully and participate actively to ensure the success of the operation.
This proactive initiative comes as India returns to heightened alertness following its decisive cross-border military response under Operation Sindoor. Officials stress that such drills are vital to national security and public safety, especially in border regions prone to hostilities.