New Delhi: The Ministry of Home Affairs has decided to conduct the second Civil Defence Exercise titled ‘Operation Shield’ on May 31, 2025, across all districts of states and Union Territories adjoining the western border of the country, including Jammu and Kashmir.
According to the order issued by ADG Civil Defence, a copy of which has been assessed by news agency JKNS, the exercise is being held under Section 19 of the Civil Defence Rules, 1968, to strengthen preparedness against potential hostile attacks. This follows the first Civil Defence Exercise held on May 7, 2025, during which several critical preparedness gaps in vulnerable areas were observed and addressed.
The upcoming exercise will include multiple simulations, such as general/silent recall of civil defence volunteers, air raids from enemy aircraft, drones, and missiles, activation of hotlines between Air Force and Civil Defence Control Rooms, and centrally controlled air raid sirens.
The drill also includes blackout measures in civilian areas, simulation of drone attacks on military stations, and evacuation of affected families, including the simulated evacuation of 20 victims to safer locations. Additionally, mass casualty management will be practiced, including the arrangement of 30 units of blood and deployment of medical teams.
As part of the Rear Area Security Plan, the Indian Army has sought immediate deployment of Border Wing Home Guards with designated units of the Armed Forces. De-induction and mobilization drills will also be conducted to simulate troop movement to operational locations.
All district authorities have been directed to conduct the drill on May 31 at 1700 hours, in coordination with local administration, youth volunteers such as NCC, NSS, NYKS, and Bharat Scouts & Guides, and submit action reports thereafter.
The order has been sent to key officials including Union Home Secretary, NDMA, NDRF, Ministry of Youth Affairs, and Chief Secretaries/Administrators of Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, and Chandigarh. They have been instructed to ensure smooth planning and execution of the exercise in all concerned districts.
The mock drill was earlier scheduled on 29th May but was later postponed due to administrative issues. (JKNS)
