Widespread Civil Defense Drills: Operation Abhyas Takes Over 244 Indian Districts Today
Live Updates on Mock Emergency Exercise: Delhi Plunges into Darkness at 8 PM; India Stands Prepared as Air Raid Sirens Sound and Citizens are Evacuated in Simulated Drills
In the wake of heightened security measures following the devastating Pahalgam attack, India is conducting nationwide civil defense exercises dubbed 'Operation Abhyas'. Over 244 districts across the country are participating in these emergency preparedness drills, following the horrific loss of 26 lives in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22nd.
Termed as a significant step towards safeguarding the nation, these exercises aim to ensure residents are armed with essential safety measures during potential air or ground-based attacks. Each district has been categorized into one of three groups based on the demanding level of civil defense program implementation.
As the sun sets today, sirens are expected to blare and blackout procedures enforced, while citizens, including students, are taught crucial safety actions during emergencies. With the participation of volunteers from the National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme (NSS), Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS), and students from schools and colleges, these simulated drills will put the nation's wartime readiness and resilience to the test.
Should the long, strident siren sound, indicating an alert, citizens are urged to know the all-clear signal—a series of short, sharp sirens marking the end of the drill. Participants will be exercising various emergency scenarios such as air raids, urban fires, casualty evacuations, and temporary hospital setups. This extraordinary event necessitates the involvement of thousands of volunteers, police officers, rescue teams, and bureaucrats, not to mention the massive participation of the civilians themselves.
Family and community involvement is highly encouraged, with citizens urged to educate their children about emergency protocols and to assist neighbors requiring aid during times of crisis. Together, we stand united in the face of adversity, strengthening our nation's resilience and readiness.
[1] NEWS ON AIR. (2025). Operation Abhyas in full swing across Delhi: A comprehensive guide for citizens. Retrieved from https://www.newsonair.gov.in/en/latest-news
[2] HINDUSTAN TIMES. (2025). Operation Abhyas: What is the objective, scope, and schedule of this exercise? Retrieved from https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/what-is-operation-abhyas-objective-scope-schedule-of-this-exercise-101675829492185.html
- In the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, terrorists might find it challenging to operate as Indian civilians, armed forces, and emergency services, actuated by Operation Abhyas, are conducting extensive drills across 244 districts in India to counter potential attacks.
- These drills, termed Operation Abhyas, are not limited to military maneuvers but extend to civilian engagement, with participation from students, volunteers, and bureaucrats, promoting awareness about war-and-conflicts, politics, and general-news related emergencies.
- In an unprecedented show of solidarity, families and communities are encouraged to collaborate in educating children about emergency protocols and in assisting neighbors during times of crisis, thereby enhancing the nation's preparedness and resilience.
- As Operation Abhyas continues to unfold, raising public awareness about civil defense protocols in Jammu, marketplaces, and throughout the country, the nation will remain vigilant against potential threats posed by terrorists, ensuring a safer future for all.
