Chief António Guterres

India Ramps Up Security: Nationwide Mock Drills Ordered After Pahalgam Attack

The Union Home Ministry has directed multiple states to conduct comprehensive civil defense mock drills on May 7, intensifying preparedness after the Pahalgam terror attack. The drills will test emergency protocols including air raid siren systems, evacuation plans, and civilian training for crisis situations. This comes as fresh Pakistani ceasefire violations were reported along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir.

The security escalation follows the April 22 terrorist strike in Pahalgam that killed 26, with international support solidifying behind India. Russian President Vladimir Putin, during a phone conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, strongly condemned the attack and demanded punishment for both perpetrators and their supporters. The Kremlin’s statement notably avoided naming Pakistan, even as Islamabad sought Russian mediation to de-escalate tensions with India.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh concurrently held strategic talks with Japanese counterpart Gen Nakatani, focusing on counter-terror cooperation and Indo-Pacific security challenges. The discussions gained significance amid reports of China’s growing military footprint in the region.

Read more: Satellite Images Expose Lashkar-e-Taiba Camp in PoK Linked to Pahalgam Terror Attack

On the ground, the Indian Army reported sustained small arms fire from Pakistani positions across multiple LoC sectors. Security forces remain on high alert, with intelligence inputs suggesting possible fresh infiltration attempts. The ordered mock drills will specifically test:

  • Activation of emergency warning systems
  • Efficiency of evacuation procedures
  • Civilian response coordination
  • First aid and crisis management capabilities

Meanwhile, Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach to Russia reveals growing isolation, with Moscow maintaining its pro-India stance on counter-terrorism. The Pahalgam attack continues to reshape regional geopolitics, as evidenced by Japan’s enhanced security engagement with New Delhi during Gen Nakatani’s visit.

Security analysts note the nationwide drills mark a shift toward comprehensive civil defense preparedness beyond traditional conflict zones. The Home Ministry’s directive covers both border states and inland regions, reflecting concerns about potential terror spillover.

Read more: Pakistan Faces Critical Ammunition Shortage: Only 96 Hours of Artillery Supplies Left Amid India Tensions

As the government maintains pressure on Pakistan through diplomatic and military channels, these measures aim to strengthen domestic resilience against possible threats. The coming days may see further security enhancements as investigations into the Pahalgam attack continue yielding critical intelligence.

Disclaimer: This report compiles official statements and verified developments. Security measures may evolve based on threat assessments.

Source: The Hindu