In a significant move aimed at strengthening national preparedness, the central government has issued instructions to states in the northern and western regions, along with Union Territories, to activate air raid sirens and conduct blackout and safety drills.
The directive comes as part of a broader civil defence strategy focused on enhancing public awareness and response mechanisms in the event of aerial threats or emergencies. Officials have been asked to carry out mock drills, including complete blackouts during designated hours, evacuation exercises, and public alerts using sirens.
Authorities across these regions have been urged to coordinate with local administration, law enforcement, and emergency services to ensure smooth execution of the preparedness protocols. The government has emphasized the importance of community participation and timely communication to avoid panic and ensure effectiveness.
These drills are expected to take place in phases over the coming weeks, with local bodies directed to inform residents in advance. The move has sparked mixed reactions—some citizens welcomed the initiative as a necessary safety measure, while others expressed concerns about disruption and anxiety.
Officials maintain that such exercises are essential to keeping readiness levels high in uncertain times, and have reassured the public that the drills are purely precautionary.