What Are the Mock Drills Under 'Operation Shield' Conducted Today?
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Synopsis
In a crucial effort to strengthen national security, civil defence mock drills under 'Operation Shield' will occur today in border states and UTs with Pakistan. These exercises are designed to prepare authorities and communities for potential threats, highlighting the government's commitment to improving emergency readiness.
Key Takeaways
- Enhanced National Security: The drills are aimed at improving readiness against cross-border threats.
- Community Involvement: Local populations will participate in simulated emergency scenarios.
- Operational Readiness: Follow-up drills address gaps identified in previous exercises.
- Inter-Agency Coordination: The initiative promotes better cooperation among various response agencies.
- Public Awareness: These drills aim to educate communities about emergency preparedness.
New Delhi, May 31 (NationPress) In a pivotal step to bolster national security readiness, civil defence mock drills are set to take place today under the banner of 'Operation Shield' across various states and Union Territories that share borders with Pakistan.
The drills will commence at 5:00 p.m. in Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, and Chandigarh, concentrating on areas that are closest to the border and most vulnerable to potential cross-border threats.
Originally slated for May 29, the exercises were postponed due to administrative factors.
A government announcement released on May 29 confirmed the new schedule and highlighted the critical nature of this exercise in enhancing readiness and addressing key gaps identified during a similar nationwide drill that took place on May 7.
'Operation Shield' aims to simulate hostile scenarios, including air raid alerts, blackout procedures, and a variety of emergency response actions to assess the preparedness of civil authorities, emergency services, and local communities.
The drills are intended to mirror real-world situations that could emerge from external threats, particularly in sensitive districts near the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB).
As per official sources, total blackouts will be implemented in designated vulnerable civilian regions in Punjab, with the exception of critical services like hospitals and emergency response units. Sirens will sound to notify residents, and mock response actions will be executed to evaluate how effectively communities and response teams can react under pressure.
Government representatives noted that the previous nationwide exercise uncovered multiple operational weaknesses, necessitating follow-up drills specifically targeting high-risk areas.
This initiative underscores the government's persistent efforts to fortify civil defence mechanisms in light of escalating regional security issues.
The drills are anticipated to significantly enhance inter-agency cooperation, public awareness, and the capability of local systems to respond swiftly and effectively to any hostile incidents or natural disasters affecting border regions.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize that these drills are not just routine exercises but essential measures to safeguard our nation. The government's commitment to enhancing civil defence mechanisms reflects a proactive approach in addressing security challenges, particularly in sensitive border areas. This initiative fosters greater preparedness and resilience among communities, ensuring that we remain vigilant in the face of potential threats.
NationPress
19/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Operation Shield'?
Operation Shield is a civil defence initiative aimed at enhancing national security preparedness through mock drills in regions vulnerable to cross-border threats.
Which states are participating in the drills?
The drills will take place in Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, and Chandigarh.
Why were the drills rescheduled?
The drills were initially planned for May 29 but were postponed due to administrative reasons.
What scenarios will be simulated during the drills?
The drills will simulate hostile situations, including air raid sirens, blackout protocols, and emergency response actions.
How will the community be involved in the drills?
Residents will be alerted by sirens, and mock response measures will be enacted to assess community and agency reactions under pressure.
