In response to escalating tensions with Pakistan and a recent terrorist incident that claimed 26 civilian lives, authorities have scheduled a comprehensive nationwide mock drill for May 7. The exercise will encompass 244 cities across India, including 19 in Gujarat, marking the first large-scale civil defense drill since the 1971 Indo-Pakistan conflict.
Strategic Classification of Civil Defense Zones
Officials have established a three-tier classification system for civil defense districts in Gujarat:
- Category 1: Three districts designated as highly sensitive
- Category 2: Ten districts identified as moderately sensitive
- Category 3: Six districts classified as minimally sensitive
Core Objectives of the Exercise
The drill aims to familiarize citizens with critical emergency protocols, including:
- Recognizing and responding appropriately to air raid warning sirens
- Implementing effective self-protection measures during potential attacks
- Executing proper blackout procedures to minimize visibility
- Following established evacuation routes and assembly points
This initiative represents the first nationwide civil defense exercise since similar drills conducted during the 1971 Indo-Pakistan war. Previous nationwide drills were also implemented during the 1962 Sino-Indian conflict and the 1965 Indo-Pakistan war.
Leadership and Coordination
IPS officer Manoj Agrawal has been designated as the drill coordinator. A preparatory meeting, chaired by Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghvi, recently convened to finalize arrangements. Key participants included Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue Department Jayanthi Ravi, state police chief Vikas Sahay, and Director General of Home Guards and Civil Defense Manoj Agrawal.
List of CDD in the Country, Where Mock Drill Will Be Held on Tomorrow
