In response to escalating tensions with Pakistan following the deadly April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives—mostly tourists—the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has instructed states to conduct nationwide mock drills on May 7. According to ANI and PTI, the drills aim to bolster civil defence readiness in case of a hostile strike.
The MHA has asked states to activate air raid warning sirens, train civilians on protective measures, and rehearse evacuation protocols. States have also been told to implement blackout strategies and camouflage key infrastructure swiftly.
This move comes after India introduced a string of strong measures against Pakistan, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, sealing the Attari border crossing, and downgrading diplomatic relations. The Indian government has also revoked all visa types for Pakistani nationals and shut its airspace to Pakistani airlines.
In retaliation, Pakistan suspended all trade with India and banned Indian carriers from its airspace. Tensions have also intensified along the Line of Control, with Pakistan repeatedly violating the ceasefire for over 10 days.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has convened several high-level meetings with top security and military officials since the Pahalgam attack. During a major briefing, he asserted, “the armed forces have full operational freedom to determine the mode, targets, and timing of India’s response to the attack.”
