Following the Pahalgam terror attack and the subsequent tensions between India and Pakistan, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Monday directed all states and union territories to take up mock drills. More than 240 Indian districts are now participating in coordinated simulation drills to gauge readiness for possible crises like terror attacks, blackouts and air raids. As part of a national civil defence strategy, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and local authorities have organised the exercises that include important cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Lucknow.
The Indian government maintains that these drills are not linked to any immediate threat, but are aimed at increasing readiness in light of recent global conflict patterns and regional tensions. The comprehensive list of locations for mock exercises also includes prominent defence establishments, airports and public spaces.