The National Security Guard (NSG) on 6 November 2026 conducted a large-scale multi-agency counter-terrorism exercise, 'Ex Sarvatra Pratighat-I', spanning 12 locations across Mumbai and Navi Mumbai. The drill was designed to evaluate and reinforce the preparedness of security forces in responding to complex, simultaneous terror threats across a dense urban landscape.

Agencies Involved

The exercise was led by the NSG in close coordination with the Mumbai Police, Maharashtra Police, Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, Indian Coast Guard, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), and multiple emergency response services. The breadth of participation underscored the unified approach India's security establishment is pursuing for urban counter-terrorism.

What the Drill Tested

According to officials, the exercise involved the simultaneous and sequential deployment of counter-terrorism forces at different sites, simulating scenarios that would demand coordinated, rapid intervention by multiple agencies. It tested operational readiness, inter-agency coordination, and interoperability — three metrics that security planners say are critical when threats unfold at several locations at once.

The drill also assessed the effectiveness of existing response mechanisms and coordination protocols under pressure. Officials stated that the exercise provided a live-environment opportunity to identify gaps in communication and tactical synchronisation between central and state forces.

Why Mumbai Was Chosen

Mumbai and Navi Mumbai's status as India's foremost financial and commercial hubs makes them high-value targets in any adversarial calculus. The choice of these two cities is not incidental — the 26 November 2008 terror attacks, which paralysed Mumbai for over 60 hours and claimed 166 lives, remain a defining reference point for urban counter-terrorism planning in India. Exercises of this scale are periodically conducted to ensure that the lessons of that attack are institutionally embedded and that response frameworks keep pace with evolving threat vectors.

Key Outcomes and Takeaways

The NSG said the exercise reinforced the collective commitment of all participating agencies to national and urban security while sharpening their ability to respond to evolving threats. Officials emphasised that seamless coordination and operational synergy among security forces are non-negotiable for a swift, effective, and integrated emergency response. The multi-agency format also highlighted that no single force can address a complex, multi-point terror scenario in isolation.

Details on specific outcomes, identified gaps, or future follow-on exercises have not been disclosed, as is standard practice for operational security drills of this nature. Further exercises under the 'Sarvatra Pratighat' series are likely, given the '-I' suffix in the drill's designation.