Nation

IIE DIGITAL DESK : The security move amid escalating tensions with Pakistan, the central government has directed comprehensive mock drills to be conducted in four key border states—Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Jammu & Kashmir—on May 29. The drills aim to assess operational readiness, strengthen coordination among various security agencies, and enhance public awareness in the event of cross-border threats or emergencies.

Top sources in the Ministry of Home Affairs confirmed that the mock drills are being carried out under the supervision of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), in collaboration with local administration, armed forces, paramilitary units, and disaster response teams. The exercises are designed to simulate real-life scenarios involving border infiltration, aerial threats, and emergency evacuation procedures in villages located close to the international border.

The decision comes at a time when intelligence inputs suggest heightened activities across the Line of Control (LoC) and the international border. There has been a reported uptick in drone sightings, suspected infiltration attempts, and ceasefire violations over the past few weeks. Security agencies have been placed on high alert, especially following recent statements from Pakistani military and political figures that have raised concerns in New Delhi.

Officials state that the purpose of these drills is not just to test the preparedness of military and civilian establishments but also to educate local residents in sensitive areas about the protocol to follow in case of hostilities. “People living along the border are our first line of resilience. It’s crucial they know what to do and where to go in case of an actual emergency,” said a senior NDMA official.

In Gujarat’s Kutch district, which shares a maritime and land border with Pakistan, coastal police, BSF, and the Indian Navy have been instructed to coordinate mock response operations. Similarly, in Rajasthan’s Barmer and Sri Ganganagar districts, which are often vulnerable to cross-border firing, mock infiltration and evacuation drills are scheduled near forward posts and village clusters.

Punjab, which has frequently been targeted by narco-terrorism and drone smuggling activities, will conduct high-intensity drills in Ferozepur, Gurdaspur, and Tarn Taran. Local police and BSF units are expected to collaborate in intercept simulations and hostage rescue exercises.

Jammu & Kashmir, a hotspot of tension in the region, will witness the most complex operations. The drill in Jammu, Samba, and Rajouri districts will include simulations of multiple infiltration attempts and coordinated attacks on civilian and military targets. Army units, CRPF, local police, and even health workers have been brought under the operational grid to ensure an integrated emergency response.

A state of heightened surveillance is already in place across these border regions. Additional checkpoints have been installed, night patrols have increased, and drone surveillance is being extensively used to monitor suspicious activity. The central government has reiterated that these mock drills are part of a “routine preparedness protocol” and not a sign of any immediate conflict escalation.

The timing of the drills—just weeks after diplomatic ties between India and Pakistan further soured over alleged support for terror activities—has led to widespread speculation. Defence analysts believe this could also serve as a strong signal to Pakistan about India’s vigilance and readiness to respond to any provocation.

Local authorities have urged residents not to panic and to cooperate with the drills. “This is purely a precautionary exercise. We urge people not to spread rumours or misinformation and to follow instructions from local officials,” said the District Collector of Barmer.

As regional geopolitics continues to remain fragile, India's security establishment is tightening protocols and boosting preparedness. The mock drills on May 29 are expected to set a new benchmark in civil-military synergy for border security.