For the first time in over five decades, India will conduct large-scale civil defence mock drills on May 7, 2025. Directed by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), this nationwide exercise aims to assess the country’s preparedness against potential hostile threats such as air raids and missile attacks. The drills are set to take place across 244 districts, particularly those identified as vulnerable to security challenges. Civil Defence wardens, Home Guards, NCC cadets, students, and volunteers will participate in the drills, which are being coordinated with local state and district authorities to ensure seamless execution.

These mock drills are designed to simulate real-life wartime emergency situations. As part of the exercise, air raid sirens will be sounded to mimic alerts of incoming aerial attacks. Participants will practice immediate responses, including evacuations and shelter procedures. Blackout protocols—where lights are switched off to reduce visibility to enemy aircraft—will also be carried out, especially in urban areas. The objective is not only to test infrastructure and preparedness but also to familiarize the general public with proper safety measures during emergencies.

This initiative highlights the government’s renewed focus on strengthening India’s internal security mechanisms in light of evolving global threats. By engaging multiple layers of society—from defence personnel to civilians—the mock drills serve as both a readiness test and a public awareness campaign. The Ministry hopes the exercise will uncover gaps in coordination and response time, ultimately leading to more robust and efficient disaster and wartime response systems across the country.