In a significant development, the scheduled civil defence drills, codenamed ‘Operation Shield,’ set to take place on May 29, 2025, in the border states of Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and the Union Territory of Chandigarh have been postponed due to administrative reasons. These exercises were part of a nationwide initiative to bolster civil defence preparedness amid escalating tensions along the India-Pakistan border.
Civil Defence Exercise Postponed in Four States
The civil defence exercises, aimed at enhancing emergency response capabilities in the event of potential threats such as air raids, drone attacks, and missile strikes, have been deferred in the aforementioned regions. The postponement was officially communicated by the respective state governments, citing administrative constraints as the primary reason. Notably, Punjab has proposed rescheduling the drill to June 3, 2025, as their civil defence personnel are currently engaged in training with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) .
Reasons Behind Postponement Explained
The decision to postpone the civil defence drills stems from various administrative challenges faced by the state authorities. In Punjab, the overlap of the scheduled drill with ongoing NDRF training sessions for civil defence staff necessitated the rescheduling. Similarly, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Chandigarh have cited logistical and administrative hurdles that impeded the execution of the drills as initially planned.
Impact on Local Preparedness and Safety
The deferment of the civil defence exercises has raised concerns regarding the preparedness of these regions to effectively respond to potential emergencies. These drills are crucial for testing the readiness of civil defence mechanisms, coordinating among various agencies, and educating the public on safety protocols during crises. The delay may temporarily affect the momentum of preparedness initiatives, underscoring the need for prompt rescheduling and execution of the drills to ensure public safety.
New Dates and Official Statements
While the exact rescheduled dates for the civil defence drills in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Chandigarh are yet to be announced, Punjab has officially proposed June 3, 2025, for conducting the exercise. The central government is expected to coordinate with the respective state authorities to finalize and communicate the new schedules promptly. Official statements from the state governments have emphasized their commitment to enhancing civil defence preparedness and ensuring the safety of their citizens .
Conclusion
The postponement of the civil defence drills in Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Chandigarh highlights the complexities involved in coordinating large-scale emergency preparedness exercises. While administrative challenges have necessitated the deferment, it is imperative for the authorities to address these issues swiftly and reschedule the drills to maintain a high level of readiness against potential threats. Continued
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This Article contain Sources from Hindustan TImes, Times of India.
