Photo Credit: Business Standard
On May 31, 2025, at 5:00 PM, India will initiate “Operation Shield,” a large-scale civil defence exercise across five border states and Union Territories: Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, Gujarat, Haryana, and Rajasthan. This drill aims to enhance emergency preparedness in regions near the India-Pakistan border, reflecting the nation’s commitment to bolstering national defence and civilian response mechanisms against potential threats.
Simulating Real-World Threats
Operation Shield will simulate various emergency scenarios, including air raids, drone incursions, and missile attacks. Activities will encompass air raid siren tests, blackout simulations, evacuation drills, and the activation of communication hotlines between the Air Force and Civil Defence Control Room . These exercises are designed to test and improve inter-agency coordination and public safety protocols.
Community Involvement and Coordination
The drill will involve local authorities, civil defence volunteers, and other security stakeholders. Volunteers from organizations such as the National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme (NSS), Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS), and Bharat Scouts & Guides will participate, assisting in various civil defence efforts. This community engagement is crucial for ensuring a coordinated and effective response during actual emergencies.
Context and Significance
Operation Shield follows the earlier Operation Abhyaas conducted on May 7, 2025, which revealed critical gaps in readiness, prompting the need for this subsequent exercise. The initiative also comes in the wake of increasing hostilities along the international border, including the recent Pahalgam terror attack, underscoring the growing importance of civilian readiness in conflict scenarios.
Public Advisory
Authorities have urged public cooperation and calm during the exercise to ensure its effectiveness . Residents in the affected regions are advised to follow instructions from local officials and not to panic during the drills.
Operation Shield represents a proactive approach to national security, aiming to fortify defence measures against potential threats and enhance the resilience of communities along India’s western border.
