India held its largest civil defence drill since 1971 in a significant development for its internal security preparedness. Operation Abhyaas involves almost every aspect of civil preparedness being conducted in 244 districts. The aim of the exercise was to better prepare the country for possible external threats given the recent tensions with Pakistan.
The Trigger: Pahalgam Terror Attack
The impetus for Operation Abhyaas originated from the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir which killed 26 civilians. The it was a brutal incident that shocked the nation, which was accompanied by the government now caring about border surveillance and asking and developing initiatives for citizens to engage in civil preparedness initiatives. As worries increase about possible security threats from these external narratives across borders, governments and authorities are keen on triggering a major mock drill to not only set their own systems in place but also test if citizens have also gone their systems and prepared for emergencies.
Drill Components: Sirens, Blackouts & Evacuations
The mock drill incorporates all sorts of coordination; air raid sirens, blackout drills, emergency evacuation drills, and in some places, mock missile strike drills.
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Public Response and Awareness
Schools and workplaces participated and many people have used social media to post their experiences and feedback. The federal government created public service announcements and guides to direct people on how to act in an emergency.
Strengthening National Resilience
Operation Abhyaas in India is not just a single day event; it represents a shift in the national approach for civil defence and national security. With both military and non-military threats now unpredictable, these types of drills increase public awareness about civil defence, and enhance preparedness. click here for the source
