Nationwide Civil Defence Mock Drill “Operation Abhyaas” on 7 May 2025: What You Need to Know
India is set to conduct a massive nationwide mock drill on Wednesday, 7 May 2025, named “Operation Abhyaas.” Organized by the Ministry of Home Affairs, this civil defence exercise will cover 259 locations, including major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata.
This drill aims to enhance disaster preparedness, simulate wartime emergency scenarios, and ensure public safety in the face of growing security threats, including the recent Pahalgam terror attack.
🔑 Key Highlights of the Mock Drill on 7 May 2025
- Event Name: Operation Abhyaas
- Date: 7 May 2025 (Wednesday)
- Time: Starts at 4:00 PM IST
- Organized By: Ministry of Home Affairs, India
- Coverage: 259 cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and more
🚨 What Will Happen During the Mock Drill?
- Air Raid Sirens: Loud sirens will sound across cities to simulate an emergency situation.
- Power Blackouts: Citizens will be asked to switch off lights and appliances temporarily.
- Public Evacuation Drills: Malls, schools, offices, and hospitals will conduct evacuation rehearsals.
- Camouflage Operations: Key installations will simulate protective measures used during war.
- Communication Testing: Control rooms will conduct emergency communication drills and inter-agency coordination exercises.
🏙️ Delhi and Metro City Specific Measures
In Delhi, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) will carry out:
- Simulated bomb threat responses
- Traffic diversions and public movement control
- Deployment of NDRF, civil defence volunteers, and police units
ℹ️ Public Advisory – Don’t Panic!
Authorities have clearly stated this is only a mock drill, and no real danger exists. The public is advised:
- To remain calm
- Follow official instructions
- Participate in drills if asked
- Avoid spreading rumors on social media
✅ Why Is Operation Abhyaas Important?
- Enhances India’s emergency response system
- Trains citizens in civil defence procedures
- Helps agencies prepare for natural disasters, terrorist attacks, and wartime emergencies
- Boosts community safety awareness
Nationwide Civil Defence Mock Drill “Operation Abhyaas” Scheduled for May 7, 2025
In light of recent national security concerns, the Ministry of Home Affairs has announced a nationwide civil defence mock drill, codenamed “Operation Abhyaas,” to be held on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. This large-scale preparedness exercise will take place across 259 locations in India, covering major metropolitan cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and others.
The purpose of this coordinated mock drill is to assess and enhance India's readiness in responding to large-scale emergencies, particularly in the wake of the recent Pahalgam terror attack, which has elevated national security concerns.
Objectives of Operation Abhyaas
The drill is designed to:
- Test the effectiveness of civil defence protocols.
- Train citizens in emergency evacuation and blackout procedures.
- Strengthen coordination between local authorities, emergency services, and residents.
- Ensure functional readiness of control rooms, warning systems, and essential infrastructure.
Key Activities Planned
The mock drill will begin at 4:00 PM IST simultaneously across all participating locations. Citizens can expect the following events:
- Air Raid Sirens: Loud warning sirens will be activated to simulate a real emergency alert.
- Blackout Protocols: Residents will be instructed to switch off all lights and electronic appliances to simulate a wartime blackout scenario.
- Evacuation Drills: Public buildings, schools, and marketplaces will conduct mock evacuations.
- Camouflage Exercises: Key government and utility structures will simulate camouflage operations.
- Emergency Communication Tests: Control rooms will engage in inter-agency communication drills to test their response coordination.
Delhi’s Special Protocols
In the National Capital, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) will implement additional measures, including traffic diversions, the use of mock explosive devices (under police supervision), and rapid response team deployments in sensitive areas.
Public Advisory
Authorities have advised the public not to panic during the drill. It is a simulation only, and all emergency signals, including sirens and loudspeakers, are part of the training. Citizens are encouraged to participate actively and follow instructions from officials to ensure safety and learning.
Conclusion
“Operation Abhyaas” is a crucial step in India’s proactive approach to national safety and civil preparedness. With growing threats in the modern world, such exercises ensure that citizens and institutions are not just reactive but ready. Participation and awareness will be key to its success.