Operation Shield, a big-scale civil defence mock drill aimed at boosting emergency preparedness in light of heightened tensions with Pakistan, has been postponed across several border states and Union Territories. Originally scheduled for Thursday, the choice turned into formally attributed to administrative reasons, with out a additional information supplied.
The exercising turned into deliberate as a coordinated reaction simulation, providing mock eventualities consisting of air raids, drone moves, and evacuation operations. It became set to take area in Haryana, Rajasthan, Punjab, and the Union Territory of Chandigarh.
Official Confirmations from State Authorities
The Haryana Home Department showed the postponement in a assertion on Wednesday night, following commands from the Ministry of Home Affairs. All 22 districts inside the state had been making ready for the mock drill, which changed into to take place between five PM and nine PM.
Chandigarh’s management also issued a assertion, clarifying that there could be “no blackout or mock drill” on Thursday, mentioning directions from the vital authorities.
Rajasthan, which had deliberate complete-scale sporting activities in all forty one districts—especially in touchy border regions like Jaisalmer and Barmer—echoed the postponement and introduced that a brand new date could be shared quickly.
Punjab to Conduct Drill Separately on June 3
While most states postponed their drills, Punjab chose a different path. The state had already requested a date change due to its civil defence staff undergoing training with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). The Centre approved this request, and the mock drill in Punjab is now scheduled for June 3. All deputy commissioners have been notified.
Background: Security Measures Following Operation Sindoor
This series of drills comes in the wake of Operation Sindoor, a military offensive launched on May 7 targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The operation was a direct retaliation to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives.
Following the campaign, cross-border shelling and drone intrusions increased, triggering a security alert along the western frontier. In response, the Ministry of Home Affairs instructed border states and UTs to strengthen their civil defence systems and conduct preparedness drills.
What’s Next for Operation Shield?
While Punjab proceeds with its revised schedule, new dates for Haryana, Rajasthan, and Chandigarh are expected to be announced soon. The exercise is expected to test critical response mechanisms, including air raid sirens, evacuation plans, and emergency medical mobilization.
