India Gears Up: Nationwide Mock Drills on May 7 as Strike on Pakistan Looms

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), government of India, has directed several states to conduct nationwide mock drills on May 7 to assess preparedness for civil defence in case of hostile attacks, according to Government of India sources. 

This emerges as a key development post Prime Minister Modi’s strong warning aganst the recent terrorist attack on tourists in Kashmir, India.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed several states to conduct nationwide mock drills on May 7 to assess preparedness for civil defence in case of hostile attacks, according to Government of India sources. 

MHA has asked several states to conduct mock drills in for items for effective civil defence on 7th May: Government of India Sources

Following measures will be undertaken –
1.Operationalization of Air Raid Warning Sirens
2. Training of civilians, students, etc, on the civil…

— ANI (@ANI) May 5, 2025

Below are the measures to be undertaken.

1.Operationalization of Air Raid Warning Sirens

2. Training of civilians, students, etc, on the civil defence aspects to protect themselves in the event of a hostile attack.

3. Provision of crash black out measures

4. Provision for early camouflaging of vital plants/installations

5. Updation of evacuation plan & its rehearsal

Why are mock drill so important?

Mock drills are critically important in preparing for war or any large-scale emergency. Here’s why:

1. Testing Readiness: They assess how well civil defence systems, emergency responders, and civilians can react under pressure—before a real crisis hits.
2. Identifying Weak Points: Drills help spot flaws in communication, coordination, logistics, or infrastructure that might fail during actual conflict.
3. Public Awareness: They train civilians on what to do—where to go, how to respond, and how to stay safe during air raids, bomb threats, or chemical attacks.
4. Confidence Building: Rehearsals improve morale and confidence among military and emergency services, showing that systems are in place and tested.
5. Coordination Across Agencies: Involves police, army, hospitals, local authorities, and even schools—ensuring everyone knows their role.

So while drills aren’t combat, they’re a vital rehearsal that can save lives and improve national resilience if war breaks out.