India Conducts Nationwide Mock Drill Amid Rising Tensions with Pakistan

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has initiated a nationwide civil defence mock drill to assess preparedness against potential security threats. In Punjab's Amritsar, authorities conducted the exercise on Wednesday evening, with further drills scheduled for later in the day. A senior police official confirmed operations at 4 PM and 10:30 PM, requiring residents to adhere to blackout instructions as sirens sound across the city.

Deputy Commissioner of Amritsar, Sakshi Sahni, addressed citizens via a video message, detailing the drill's objectives and urging them to disregard misinformation. Reports of black marketing and inflated prices of essentials were noted, with stern warnings issued for offenders. Official channels are emphasized for reliable updates and news to prevent the spread of panic and rumors.

These exercises coincide with escalating tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack. In retaliation, India's Armed Forces executed 'Operation Sindoor,' targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The cross-border operations, involving Army, Navy, and Air Force, struck nine locations, marking India's most significant military engagement inside Pakistani territory since 1971.

(With inputs from agencies.)