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In response to the heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the devastating Pahalgam terror attack, Delhi has initiated “Operation Abhyaas,” a large-scale civil defence mock drill aimed at bolstering the city’s emergency preparedness. This operation is part of a nationwide effort to enhance civilian readiness against potential threats.
The Pahalgam Attack and Rising Tensions
On April 22, 2025, a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, resulted in the tragic loss of 26 lives. The incident, attributed to cross-border terrorism, has intensified the already strained relations between India and Pakistan. In the wake of this attack, India launched “Operation Sindoor,” targeting terrorist infrastructure across the border. Concurrently, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced “Operation Abhyaas” to assess and improve the nation’s civil defence capabilities.
Operation Abhyaas: Scope and Execution in Delhi
“Operation Abhyaas” is being conducted across 244 districts nationwide, with Delhi playing a pivotal role. The drill encompasses 55 strategically selected locations across all 11 districts of the capital, including markets, residential areas, hospitals, and schools. At 4:00 PM on May 7, 2025, 60 air raid sirens signaled the commencement of the exercise, simulating scenarios such as air raids, urban fires, casualty evacuations, and temporary hospital setups.
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Each district deployed at least 100 Civil Defence Volunteers (CDVs), alongside police, fire officials, medics, and disaster response teams. The drills aimed to test the coordination among various agencies and the effectiveness of emergency protocols.
Public Participation and Awareness
To ensure public safety and minimize panic, authorities issued guidelines and advisories ahead of the drills. Residents were informed about the nature and timing of the exercises and were advised to cooperate with officials and follow instructions during the simulations. The involvement of civilians in evacuation drills and sheltering exercises was crucial in assessing the community’s readiness and response to emergency situations.
Significance of Operation Abhyaas
This drill marks the most extensive civil defence exercise in India since the 1971 war. It underscores the government’s commitment to proactive preparedness in the face of potential threats. By involving multiple stakeholders and simulating real-world scenarios, “Operation Abhyaas” aims to identify gaps in the current emergency response framework and implement necessary improvements.
Nationwide Implementation
Beyond Delhi, “Operation Abhyaas” is being conducted in various states, including Maharashtra, Kerala, and Punjab. Each state has tailored the drills to address region-specific challenges, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of the nation’s emergency preparedness.
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Conclusion
“Operation Abhyaas” represents a significant step towards strengthening India’s civil defence mechanisms. By proactively addressing potential threats and enhancing coordination among various agencies, the nation is better equipped to safeguard its citizens. As tensions with Pakistan continue to escalate, such measures are crucial in maintaining national security and public confidence.
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