Turkey and Azerbaijan express support for Pakistan following India’s retaliation to jihadist attacks allegedly backed by Pakistan

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A nationwide civil defense mock drill will be conducted on Wednesday, May 7, across 244 districts in India. This exercise, mandated by the Ministry of Home Affairs, is aimed at ensuring preparedness for "hostile" attacks in light of rising tensions with Pakistan following the recent Pahalgam terrorist attack that claimed 26 lives.

On April 22, terrorists, believed to have connections with Pakistan, attacked Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir, killing 26 people, most of whom were tourists. Since then, tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated.

Though the mock drills are only simulations, the large-scale operation could prompt concerns among the public. Here's a quick FAQ to clarify what to expect:

What is the purpose of the mock drill?

The mock drills are intended to assess India's preparedness for emergencies, such as air raids, blackouts, and evacuations. As stated by an official release, civil defense plays a vital role in the nation’s passive defense strategy. The Civil Defence Act of 1968 governs the implementation of these measures in vulnerable areas. The Ministry of Home Affairs noted that, given the current geopolitical climate, it's crucial to maintain optimal civil defense readiness at all times.

Will schools, colleges, and banks be open?

Yes, all schools, colleges, banks, government offices, and other institutions will remain open. The drills are designed to integrate into daily activities without significant disruptions.

Will there be power cuts or blackouts?

There may be brief blackout exercises at certain locations, where voluntary participation in turning off lights will simulate a "crash blackout." This practice is part of the drills and is meant to reduce the visibility of potential targets during air raid scenarios.

(This Article was originally published by Jihad Watch)