On Saturday, May 31, the states of Punjab and Haryana will carry out statewide mock drills as part of the nationwide emergency preparedness exercise “Operation Shield.” Officials confirmed the announcement on Friday, aiming to strengthen response capabilities during possible natural disasters, attacks, or wartime emergencies.
Drill Activities: Sirens, Blackouts, and Rescue Simulations
The drills will begin at 6 PM in Punjab and 5 PM in Haryana and will involve:
- Siren alerts
- Power blackouts
- Rescue and emergency simulations
- Fire and safety demonstrations
According to Punjab Special Director General of Police (SDGP) Sanjeev Kalra, the drill will be conducted in all districts near the Western border. The armed forces will also participate. Kalra said, “Blackout measures, rescue efforts, and emergency response will be tested with full coordination.”
Haryana’s Mock Drill Involves 32,000 Volunteers
Haryana Joint Secretary Sunita Mishra confirmed the state’s full involvement, following the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) guidelines. She stated,
“The mock drill will prepare us for future emergencies. Over 32,000 trained volunteers will take part across Haryana.”
Postponements in Other Regions
While Punjab and Haryana proceed, Operation Shield was postponed in Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Chandigarh due to administrative reasons. The Gujarat Information Department noted that new dates will be announced soon.
Previously, Gujarat’s Revenue Department Chief Secretary Jayanti Ravi reviewed the preparedness virtually and issued directions for:
- Activating air raid sirens
- Ensuring full blackout
- Setting up hotlines between the Air Force and civil control rooms
- Engaging youth groups like NCC, NSS, Scouts, and Guides
Operation Shield Linked to National Security Response
Operation Shield follows Operation Sindoor, a counter-terrorism move launched by India in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). This was in response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 people, including one Nepalese citizen.
Why It Matters
These mock drills aim to:
- Train citizens and officials for emergencies
- Enhance coordination between civil and military authorities
- Test infrastructure and communication during crisis scenarios
As India strengthens its internal security measures, such drills are crucial for public safety, national readiness, and emergency response systems.
