Close to 300 ‘civil defence districts’ with sensitive installations like nuclear plants, military bases, refineries, and hydroelectric dams will be covered by security drills on air-raid warning sirens, civilian training for a “hostile attack” and cleaning of bunkers and trenches.

How to conduct the exercise with active public participation was discussed at a high-level meeting chaired by Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan who will also review the preparation. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has asked all states to conduct the drills due to the “new and complex threats” that have emerged amid rising tensions with Pakistan.