What is 'Operation Shield'? Purpose and Awareness

What is 'Operation Shield'?

Operation Shield is a full-scale emergency preparedness exercise involving simulations of airstrikes and missile strikes across India's border states. Operation Shield 2025 is a large-scale civil Defence exercise initiated by the Indian government to enhance emergency preparedness in regions bordering Pakistan. Scheduled for May 31, 2025, the drill encompasses states and Union Territories including Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Jammu & Kashmir, and Chandigarh.

Operation SHIELD is part of a series of nationwide drills designed to enhance India's readiness against potential external threats. It follows Operation Abhyaas and Operation Sindoor, earlier exercises conducted in response to escalating tensions along the India-Pakistan border.

Purpose and Activities of Operation Shield

The objective of Operation Shield is to simulate various emergencies to test and improve coordination among civil defence units, local authorities, and security agencies. Key activities include:

Simulated Aerial Threats: Mock drills involving scenarios like drone swarm attacks, air raids, and missile strikes to assess response strategies.

Blackout Exercises: Controlled blackouts in civilian areas to practice protocols during potential aerial threats.

Evacuation Drills: Organised evacuations and medical response simulations to train personnel in handling mass casualty situations.

Inter-agency Coordination: Testing communication lines and coordination between various agencies, including the Indian Air Force and civil defence control rooms.

Date and Timing of Operation Shield:

• Mock Drill: May 31, 2025, starting at 5:00 PM.

• Blackout Drills: In certain areas, controlled blackouts were observed. For instance, a 10-minute blackout occurred from 8:00 PM to 8:10 PM.

Participating States and Union Territories:

• Punjab

• Haryana

• Rajasthan

• Gujarat

• Jammu & Kashmir

• Chandigarh

Why are mock drills being conducted?

Mock drills are being conducted again due to rising national security concerns. The Ministry of Home Affairs has warned of "new and complex threats" in the region. Recent terror attacks, like the one in Pahalgam (April 2025), have triggered precautionary actions.

1 Response to Terror Attacks: The terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, which resulted in the loss of 26 lives, has heightened security concerns. In response, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed states to conduct mock drills to assess and improve emergency preparedness.

2 Emerging Complex Threats: The MHA has identified "new and complex threats" in the current geopolitical scenario, necessitating enhanced civil defence measures. These include potential aerial threats, drone attacks, and other forms of hostile engagements.

3 Testing and Improving Readiness: The drills are designed to evaluate the effectiveness of existing emergency response systems, identify gaps, and prepare both authorities and civilians to handle various crises.

What should people who reside in affected areas people?

Residents in affected areas should stay calm, follow official instructions, and cooperate with authorities during Operation Shield.

• They should participate in drills like blackouts or evacuations seriously and avoid spreading rumors.

• Staying indoors and keeping emergency supplies ready is also advised.

• Turn off all lights and outside lighting during the blackout phase

• Seek refuge at home, ideally on the ground floors of safe rooms

• Stay calm and be guided by local instructions

  Operation Shield 2025 is a proactive civil defence initiative aimed at strengthening India’s emergency preparedness. Residents in affected areas play a crucial role by staying calm, following guidelines, and cooperating with authorities. Their awareness and participation ensure collective safety and national readiness. So, follow the official guidelines and stay safe.