The aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, continues to reverberate across India, prompting heightened security measures and a nationwide readiness exercise. The brutal attack, which targeted tourists in the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir, resulted in the death of 26 people and left 20 injured. The incident is considered the deadliest attack on civilians in India since the 2008 Mumbai attacks.

The attack involved five militants armed with M4 carbines and AK-47s, who targeted non-Muslim tourists. While the Resistance Front (TRF), believed to be an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba, initially claimed responsibility, they later retracted their claim. The motive behind the attack is believed to be opposition to Indian government policies regarding residency permits and non-local settlement in Kashmir.

In response to the escalating tensions and the need to assess the country's preparedness, the Government of India has announced a nationwide civil defence mock drill scheduled for May 7, 2025. This drill, the most extensive of its kind since the Indo-Pakistani war of 1971, will encompass nearly 300 districts with sensitive infrastructure. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed all states and union territories to conduct these drills to check preparedness against "new and complex threats".

The mock drills will simulate real-world emergency scenarios, including air-raid sirens and blackout simulations. The aim is to test how quickly and effectively the civilian population can respond to emergencies such as missile strikes or aerial attacks. The exercises will also focus on maintaining bunkers and trenches, as well as testing evacuation plans. Citizens may experience temporary disruptions, including power cuts, mobile signal suspensions, and traffic diversions during the drill. Awareness sessions will be held in schools, colleges, offices, and community centers, focusing on finding shelter, basic first aid, and staying calm during emergencies.

The government has categorized districts into three levels of priority to conduct the drills. These drills are designed to reduce panic, avoid chaos, and save lives in war-like situations. Following the drill, each participating state and union territory must submit an "Action Taken Report" documenting the event, response gaps, and recommendations for improvement.

The Pahalgam attack has not only sparked security concerns but has also led to increased tensions between India and Pakistan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.