CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
The Government of India is set to conduct a nationwide civil defence mock drill on May 7, 2025, aimed at bolstering the country’s emergency preparedness in light of escalating tensions with Pakistan. This exercise marks the first significant nationwide civil defence drill since the 1971 India-Pakistan conflict and will cover 244 designated districts. It is designed to evaluate the effectiveness of India's civil defence framework and enhance the readiness of response mechanisms in case of military or natural emergencies.
Understanding Civil Defence In India
Civil defence refers to organised efforts by the government to prepare civilians for potential emergencies, including military conflicts, natural disasters, and other critical situations. It focuses on protecting lives, property, and critical infrastructure. The Civil Defence Act of 1968 provides the legal framework for these activities, including disaster management and emergency response.
Key elements of civil defence include:
Prevention and Mitigation: Reducing the impact of potential attacks or disasters.
Preparedness and Response: Training and equipping personnel for emergency situations.
Evacuation and Recovery: Safely relocating populations and restoring normalcy post-crisis.
Historical Background Of Civil Defence In India
India's civil defence infrastructure was formalised in the aftermath of the 1962 Sino-Indian War, leading to the passage of the Civil Defence Act in 1968. Initially focused on protecting civilians from military strikes, the act has since evolved to include disaster response and management, reflecting the changing nature of threats. Over the decades, several amendments have strengthened the integration of disaster management into civil defence operations, broadening the scope of this critical national function.
Understanding Civil Defence Districts
Civil defence districts are regions specifically designated for implementing civil defence protocols. These districts are selected based on factors like proximity to international borders, population density, strategic infrastructure, and potential vulnerability to attacks. Currently, India has 259 civil defence districts, grouped into three categories based on their risk profile:
Border Districts: Regions near international borders, such as Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Jammu & Kashmir, where the risk of cross-border conflict is higher.
High-Population Urban Centres: Densely populated cities that require advanced evacuation and protection plans.
Strategic Infrastructure Hubs: Areas with critical infrastructure like power plants, military bases, ports, and communication networks.
Objectives And Components Of Mock Drill
The upcoming mock drill will focus on testing the readiness of both civilian populations and government response systems. Key objectives include:
Training civilians in protective measures during air raids and other attacks.
Evaluating the operational status of main and backup control centres.
Testing air raid warning systems and radio communication links, particularly with the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Implementing blackout protocols and camouflage measures to reduce the visibility of critical assets.
Assessing the preparedness of firefighting, rescue, and logistics teams.
Impact On Daily Life
The drill is expected to cause temporary disruptions in the designated districts, including power outages, traffic diversions, and possible evacuations. Local residents may be required to participate in mock evacuation exercises, and certain areas might face movement restrictions as part of the drill. These measures, though inconvenient, are crucial for enhancing national security and preparedness.
Global Perspective On Civil Defence
Civil defence practices have evolved globally since the early 20th century, transitioning from simple air raid precautions to comprehensive emergency management systems. Modern civil defence now addresses a broad spectrum of threats, from military aggression to natural disasters. Countries like South Korea and Ukraine have recently conducted large-scale civil defence drills in response to geopolitical tensions, reflecting the growing importance of civilian protection in national security strategies.
Conclusion
As India prepares for this large-scale civil defence exercise, it underscores the nation’s commitment to strengthening its disaster response and crisis management capabilities. The drill serves as a critical test for both the government and the public, ensuring that India is better prepared to handle future emergencies.
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