Operation Sindoor and Exercise: Is a Mock Drill a Joke?

India Prime | Jaipur | Devendra Singh | 8 May 2025 | Operation Sindoor and Exercise  In a nationwide mock drill organized by the Government of India, exercises were conducted across 244 districts of the country, including 28 cities in Rajasthan and other states bordering Pakistan—Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Gujarat—where intensive drills were particularly conducted. These mock drills in the districts are organized under the Civil Defence Act, 1968, and the mock drill held on 7 May was the first such comprehensive exercise since 1971. Compliance with orders during these drills is mandatory. The practice of mock drills, such as turning off lights on the ground, creates difficulties for enemy pilots in navigation. It becomes challenging for them to identify targets, and the targeting system can be deceived.

Operation Sindoor and Exercise

Let’s understand this technically: during wartime, an enemy country’s fighter plane flies at an altitude of 30,000 to 40,000 feet (9-12 km). If searchlights or mobile torches on the ground are pointed upwards, they can attract the enemy’s attention. Additionally, large lights or floodlights can be visible from 80-120 km away. The light emitted from cities (urban light pollution) can be seen by pilots from a distance in clear weather without clouds or fog. Modern fighter jets are equipped with thermal imaging and night vision systems that can detect even faint light or heat signatures. In such a scenario, a single person’s mistake can cause significant damage to an area, the extent of which can be estimated.

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Looking at the damage caused by air attacks in wars between India, Pakistan, and China, it is evident that enemy aircraft have caused loss of life and property in India on several occasions. Below is a brief historical overview of the air attacks and the resulting damage in these wars:

Sources: Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 – Wikipedia, 1971 India-Pakistan War | Britannica

After reviewing these figures, the importance of mock drills becomes clear. These exercises are conducted to prepare civilians and authorities for war, terrorist attacks, or other emergencies. People in India and around the world have experienced mock drills on several occasions. Earthquake drills, COVID vaccine dry runs, and terrorist attack drills are often conducted at airports and railway stations. Additionally, fire drills are frequently organized by local bodies in schools and hospitals.

Types of Mock Drills

• Fire Drill: Evacuation practice in case of a fire
• Earthquake Mock Drill: Practicing safe evacuation from buildings
• Chemical/Nuclear Disaster Drill
• Bomb Blast/Terrorist Attack Drill
• Health Drill (Pandemic Drill): Like COVID vaccine dry run
• Cybersecurity Drill
• Military War Simulations

Consequences of Not Following Mock Drill Orders

Mock drills are regulated under the Civil Defence Act, 1968, which governs civil defence activities and provides for penalties for non-compliance. Section 11 specifically outlines penalties for individuals who fail to follow orders. Recently, on 7 May 2025, mock drills were conducted in 244 districts of India, and those who violated the rules may face penalties under the Civil Defence Act, 1968. Below, the consequences of not following mock drill orders are presented under different headings. These penalties are divided into two main categories: for members of the Civil Defence Corps and for the general public.

1. Violation of Orders by Civil Defence Corps Members

• Penalty: Fine up to 500 rupees
• Additional Penalty: 50 rupees per day after the first day
  Members of the Civil Defence Corps who fail to perform their duties or comply with orders during a mock drill can be penalized under Section 11(1) of the Civil Defence Act, 1968. This penalty applies to those who deliberately disregard orders or are negligent in their duties. For example, if a Corps member does not participate in an evacuation process during a mock drill, they may be fined.

2. Violation of Orders by the General Public

• Penalty: Fine up to 500 rupees
• Additional Penalty: 50 rupees per day after the first day
  The general public, including civilians, students, and volunteers, must follow the orders or instructions given during a mock drill. Under Section 11(2) of the Civil Defence Act, 1968, if a person fails to comply with these orders, they may be fined up to 500 rupees. If the violation continues beyond the first day, an additional fine of 50 rupees per day may be imposed. For instance, if a civilian refuses to take shelter after an air raid siren, they may face this penalty.

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Nature of Penalties

The nature of penalties is summarized in the following table:

Process of Imposing Penalties

• Legal Process: The process of imposing penalties is managed by local authorities, such as the District Magistrate or civil defence officials. Depending on the severity of the violation, the fine may be imposed immediately.
• Lack of Awareness: Many civilians are unaware of these penalties, leading to unintentional violations. Therefore, public awareness campaigns before mock drills are crucial.
• Other Potential Consequences: Although the Act only mentions fines, additional administrative actions, such as exclusion from future drills, may be possible, though not explicitly stated in the law.

Actions Taken Nationwide for Mock Drill Violations

1. Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh): FIR Filed for Spreading Rumors
A video of a fire mock drill conducted in the Kumbh Mela area was shared on social media by some individuals, falsely claiming it to be a real incident, leading to rumors. In response, the Uttar Pradesh Police clarified that the video was from a mock drill and filed an FIR against those spreading rumors, initiating legal action.

2. Dhule (Maharashtra): Attack on Policeman During Mock Drill
During a mock drill simulating a terrorist attack at the Swaminarayan Temple in Dhule, a devotee mistook a policeman playing the role of a fake terrorist for a real one and slapped him. The incident’s video went viral on social media. However, there is no report of legal action in this case.

3. Surat (Gujarat): Shooting Incident During Mock Drill
In February 2025, during a mock drill in Surat, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) accidentally shot an ATS Police Inspector, seriously injuring him. Following the incident, five lawyers sought detailed information about the event under the Right to Information (RTI) Act.

4. Jalandhar (Punjab): Fines Issued During Mock Drill
In Jalandhar, during a mock drill to check election preparedness, the police conducted thorough vehicle inspections and issued fines to those violating rules. This action was part of the mock drill.

Conclusion

Not following mock drill rules is not just a legal violation but also a risk to human lives. Despite government actions, awareness and community participation are key to ensuring safety. In the AI era, the importance of mock drills remains, as they make training more effective and cost-efficient. However, addressing challenges related to trust, ethics, and training is essential to ensure these exercises are fully effective.

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