Why is India holding a nationwide mock drill on May 7 ?

The government of India has announced a nationwide civil defence mock drill scheduled for May 7, 2025, amid heightened tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack.Ministry of home affairs (MHA) directed 244 districts to conduct civil defence mock drills. These drills mandated under the Civil Defence Rules, 1968, serve as a preparedness exercise for both authorities and the public to better understand their roles during emergencies.Also Read | Mock Drills in India Live UpdatesHowever, officials have confirmed that this exercise is not a signal of immediate conflict but rather part of broader civil defence preparations. The exercises include mocksimulations, air raid sirens, evacuation drills, and public training sessions to prepare citizens for war-like emergencies. The drill is designed to test civilian and government system responses during emergencies such as war, missile attacks, or aerial strikes. Citizens may experience temporary disruptions including power cuts, mobile signal suspensions, and traffic diversions during the drill. Some areas will see police and paramilitary forces simulating war-like scenarios.Evacuation drills will be conducted to move people from high-risk zones to safer locations, helping authorities identify logistical challenges and improve response times. Schools, colleges, offices, and community centres will host awareness sessions on finding shelter, basic first aid, and maintaining calm during emergencies.The public is advised to stay calm and follow local instructions during the drill. Authorities recommend keeping basic supplies like water, medicines, and flashlights ready, avoiding rumor-spreading on social media, and listening to official government channels for updates.After the drill, each participating state and union territory must submit an "Action Taken Report" documenting the event, response gaps, and recommendations for improvement.These civil defence measures draw from Cold War-era methods when countries regularly conducted mockand evacuation drills to prepare for potential air raids and nuclear attacks. India last implemented extensive mockmeasures during the 1971 conflict.District authorities will coordinate the exercise, working with various volunteer organizations and educational institutions to ensure widespread participation and awareness. The focus remains on creating a systematic approach to emergency preparedness while maintaining public calm and order.The exercise aims to reduce panic, avoid confusion, and potentially save lives by increasing awareness and readiness among the civilian population. Regular updates will be provided through official channels to keep the public informed throughout the drill.