Operation Sindoor: Major Civil Defence Drills Across Six States Today—What You Need to Know
Big civil defence drills are happening today, May 31, across six states and union territories in northern and western India. These important exercises, called Operation Sindoor, will take place in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Chandigarh, and Jammu & Kashmir. The main goal is to make sure everyone is prepared and knows what to do in case of emergencies.
Why Are These Drills Happening?
With current security concerns in the region, these drills are designed to help authorities and citizens practice how to respond to situations like air raids, drone attacks, and other emergency scenarios. The drills are being led by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs and are part of ongoing efforts to keep everyone safe and ready.
Key Details About the Drills
Here’s what you need to know:
- Timing: The drills will run from 5 pm to 9 pm today. There’s no need for alarm—these are only practice exercises.
- Simulated Scenarios: The drills will include practice responses to air raids, drone attacks, and wartime situations.
- Rajasthan: All 41 districts will take part in a coordinated mock drill and blackout.
- Haryana: A 15-minute controlled blackout will happen from 8 pm to 8:15 pm near important locations, but hospitals, fire stations, and police stations will not be affected.
- Volunteers: In Haryana alone, around 32,000 Civil Defence Volunteers will participate, along with members from NSS, NCC, NYKS, and Home Guards.
- Instructions: District officials have been told to brief all volunteers on their roles and responsibilities during the drills.
- Previous Drills: Similar exercises were carried out on May 7, focusing on blackout procedures, camouflaging important sites, and updating evacuation plans.
- Postponement: These drills were originally planned for May 29 but were moved to May 31 for administrative reasons.
- No Cause for Panic: The authorities have assured that these are only mock drills and there is no real threat.
- Purpose: The main aim is to improve emergency preparedness and make sure everyone knows what to do if a real crisis occurs.
What Should Residents Do?
If you live in one of these states or union territories, stay calm and follow any instructions from local authorities. The drills are for your safety and are a routine part of national security measures.
