Operation Shield: Civil Defence Mock Drill Postponed in Rajasthan and Gujarat

Operation Shield: Civil Defence Mock Drill Postponed in Rajasthan and Gujarat

by

Operation Shield: Civil Defence Mock Drill Postponed in Rajasthan and Gujarat

On May 28, 2025, the Indian states of Rajasthan and Gujarat announced the postponement of a planned civil defence mock drill named “Operation Shield,” originally scheduled for Thursday, May 29. This exercise was set to take place across several states and Union territories sharing borders with Pakistan, including Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, and Chandigarh. However, due to administrative reasons, Rajasthan and Gujarat have delayed their participation, with new dates to be announced soon.

What is Operation Shield?

“Operation Shield” is a civil defence initiative designed to enhance emergency preparedness in regions vulnerable to cross-border conflicts or terror attacks. The drill aims to test critical aspects of civil defence, such as:

  • Emergency Response Coordination: Ensuring seamless communication between agencies like the Indian Air Force, civil defence wardens, and local authorities.
  • Evacuation Protocols: Training civilians on how to respond during air raids, missile attacks, or drone incursions.
  • Public Awareness: Educating residents on safety measures, including taking shelter in bunkers or protected zones during hostile situations.
  • Infrastructure Readiness: Testing control rooms, shadow control rooms, and air raid warning systems.

The exercise was planned to involve large-scale mobilization of civil defence wardens, volunteers, and youth organizations like the National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme (NSS), and Bharat Scouts and Guides. A 15-minute controlled blackout was also scheduled in vital areas, excluding essential services like hospitals and police stations.

Why the Postponement?

According to statements from the Rajasthan Home Department and the Gujarat Information Department, the postponement in these two states was due to unspecified administrative reasons. The Gujarat Information Department stated, “It is hereby intimated that the Civil Defence Exercise ‘Operation Shield’, which was planned to be held on 29.05.2025, is hereby postponed due to administrative reasons. Next dates for the exercise shall be issued subsequently.” Rajasthan issued a similar statement, assuring that new dates would be communicated soon.

While Rajasthan and Gujarat have deferred their drills, other states like Punjab, Haryana, and Jammu and Kashmir are reportedly proceeding with the exercise, though Punjab has rescheduled its drill to June 3. The reasons for these delays remain unclear, but they come amidst heightened security concerns following recent events.

Context: Rising Tensions and Operation Sindoor

The “Operation Shield” mock drill was planned in the wake of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, which claimed 26 civilian lives. In response, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This military operation, described as a precise counter-terrorism strike, was followed by a four-day conflict involving cross-border shelling and drone attacks by Pakistan, targeting areas in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Gujarat.

The mock drills are part of a broader national strategy to bolster preparedness in border regions, especially after the recent hostilities. The exercises aim to ensure that civilians and authorities are equipped to handle potential wartime scenarios or terror-related emergencies.

What’s Next?

While Rajasthan and Gujarat await new dates for “Operation Shield,” the focus remains on strengthening civil defence mechanisms across India’s western border states. These drills are crucial for ensuring that communities are prepared for emergencies, especially in light of recent security challenges. Residents in these states are encouraged to stay updated on official announcements regarding the rescheduled drills and to participate actively when they occur.

For now, the postponement serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in coordinating large-scale exercises amidst administrative and security challenges. Keep an eye on official government portals and local news for updates on when “Operation Shield” will be rescheduled in Rajasthan and Gujarat.

Stay informed, stay prepared, and stay safe!

Sources: Hindustan Times, Livemint, Times of India

Leave a Comment