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The Government of India has rescheduled the civil defence mock drills under 'Operation Shield' to May 31, 2025. Initially slated for May 29, the large-scale emergency preparedness exercise was postponed due to "administrative reasons," according to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
The high-alert drills, aimed at testing India’s readiness against aerial threats such as air raids, missile strikes, and drone attacks, will now be conducted across vulnerable states and Union Territories bordering Pakistan, including Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Jammu and Kashmir, and Chandigarh.
Operation Shield comes in the backdrop of heightened Indo-Pak tensions following Operation Sindoor — a retaliatory military response to the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives, including that of a Nepalese national.
What will happen during 'Operation Shield' civil mock drill?
Authorities confirmed that the mock drills will involve air raid sirens, blackouts, rescue simulations, and coordination with armed forces. The drills will test the emergency response capabilities of local administrations, police, civil defence volunteers, and military units.
In Punjab, Special Director General of Police Sanjeev Kalra said the drills would be carried out across all districts from 6 PM onwards on May 31. “The mock drill will include blackout measures, fire and rescue services, and the participation of armed forces,” Kalra told ANI, adding that preparatory meetings with district officials have already taken place.
Haryana will begin its drill activities at 5 pm. “We will be following MHA guidelines. Around 32,000 civil defence volunteers will participate,” said Haryana Joint Secretary Sumita Mishra. “Training and briefings are being provided to ensure smooth conduct," he added.
Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Chandigarh on alert
Earlier this week, Gujarat’s civil defence department also confirmed the postponement. "Necessary instructions have been given to all District Collectors for readiness. Activities will include simulating air raids, using services of NCC, NSS, Bharat Scouts and Guides, and setting up hotlines with the Indian Air Force," said Jayanti Ravi, Chief Secretary of the Revenue Department, during a virtual review.
Similar postponement notifications were issued for Rajasthan and the Union Territory of Chandigarh.
What is Operation Shield?
Operation Shield is a national-level civil defence initiative designed to bolster India’s preparedness against aerial threats. It focuses on coordination among central and state agencies, the armed forces, and civil volunteers to simulate real-time response mechanisms. The drills are an integral part of India’s larger preparedness plan keeping in view the escalating tension along the border and the possibility of sudden or unconventional attacks.
The Ministry of Home Affairs would, however, maintain a vigilant lookout on the conduct of these drills and their efficacy in exposing any demands or weaknesses in the existing arrangements so that the country may be better prepared to meet any future emergencies.
(With inputs from agencies)
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