New Delhi, May 28: The Ministry of Home Affairs has announced the conduct of the 2nd Civil Defence Exercise ‘Operation Shield’ on May 29, 2025, across several states and union territories bordering India’s western frontier. This nationwide simulation aims to bolster civil defence preparedness against modern warfare threats, particularly aerial attacks involving drones and missiles.
In an official communication from the Directorate General of Fire Services, Civil Defence & Home Guards, the exercise has been mandated under Section 19 of the Civil Defence Rules, 1968, and will cover Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, and Chandigarh.
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The decision follows the first Civil Defence Exercise conducted on May 7, 2025, during which critical gaps in preparedness were identified. “Operation Shield” seeks to address these gaps and enhance inter-agency coordination in case of hostile attacks on Indian territory.
Key Objectives of the Exercise
● The exercise will simulate a multi-layered security and response scenario, including:
● Air raids and drone strikes: Simulated attacks by enemy aircraft and drones to assess response time and coordination.
● Activation of control rooms: Real-time communication drills between the Air Force and Civil Defence Control Rooms at the state and national levels.
● Blackout procedures: Execution of controlled blackouts in civilian areas excluding emergency and critical services.
● Mass casualty evacuation: A mock attack on a military station by enemy drones, requiring the evacuation and treatment of 20 simulated casualties with assistance from local civil authorities.
● Medical response augmentation: Coordination between civil and military medical teams to manage high-casualty events.
● Rear area security mobilization: Immediate deployment of Home Guards, quick response teams, and armed forces integration to secure vital installations.
The exercise will commence at 1700 hours on May 29, with participation from local administrations, NCC, NSS, NYKS, Bharat Scouts & Guides, and other community volunteers.
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Officials have been directed to ensure thorough planning and communication with stakeholders. The action plan and outcomes are to be reported back to the Directorate General.
This exercise reflects strengthening internal security frameworks in the wake of evolving threats, especially those posed by drone warfare and cyber-physical hybrid attacks.
