Saturday, March 29, 2025
Home Secretary Says Mock Drills Will Train Them
India is ready to retaliate against Pakistan after the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam. As military preparations continue, the Indian government has also started preparing civilians for a potential conflict. The Ministry of Home Affairs has ordered mock drills, rehearsals, and civil defense exercises in 244 districts across the country. These drills aim to train citizens in self-defense and emergency response. The last time such a widespread civil defense drill occurred was in 1971, just before the war with Pakistan.
Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan held a meeting today with the chief secretaries of all states to discuss these preparations. The focus was on how civilians can contribute during wartime, how they can protect themselves and others, and how to improve the civil defense system at the local level. He issued detailed guidelines for the drills.
What Happened in the Home Ministry Meeting?
The meeting took place at North Block in Delhi and included representatives from all 244 civil defense districts. Senior officials from the NDRF, Civil Defense Directorate, Fire Services, Air Defense, NDMA, and various state governments also attended. IPS officer Vivek Srivastava, Director General of Fire Services, Civil Defense, and Home Guards, was present as well.
Officials reviewed the condition of the civil defense systems in all districts. They discussed whether current facilities are functioning or in need of repair. Govind Mohan explained what civilians will learn during the drills—how to respond to air raid sirens, what to do during a blackout, and how to give basic first aid. People will be advised to keep a flashlight and candle at home, and to store some cash to avoid problems in case of electronic failure.
Out of the 244 districts, more than 100 are considered highly sensitive. These drills aim to mentally prepare citizens for emergency situations.
Mock Drill in Srinagar: What If a Boat Capsizes?
Earlier today in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, authorities conducted a mock drill simulating a boat capsizing. Officials demonstrated rescue techniques and explained how to save lives in such emergencies. SDRF personnel, including jawan Arif Hussain, led the session. They trained civilians on how to use life jackets and how to protect themselves and others in water emergencies.
Two Terrorist Aides Arrested
Amid war preparations, security forces achieved a major success in Budgam district of Jammu & Kashmir. During a checkpoint operation, they arrested two suspected terrorist aides. The forces recovered a pistol, one grenade, and 15 live cartridges from them.
Parliamentary Committee Demands Social Media Report
Following the Pahalgam terror attack, a central parliamentary committee has demanded details of actions taken on social media platforms. A notice has been issued, alleging that some influencers and platforms have spread anti-national content. Such content, the notice states, could incite violence and worsen public tensions. The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and the Ministry of Electronics & IT have been asked to submit a detailed report by May 8.
