A major civil defense operation, codenamed “Operation Shield,” will take place in Amritsar on May 31, 2025, as part of a statewide preparedness drill. This initiative is being conducted under urgent instructions from the Punjab Home Guards & Civil Defence Department, following directives issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.
As per an official order dated May 29, 2025, all Deputy Commissioners across Punjab have been directed to organize the 2nd Civil Defence“ Exercise—“Operation Shield.” The objective is to strengthen readiness against any potential hostile attacks, particularly in districts located near the western border.
In Amritsar, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Major Amit Sareen confirmed full participation in the drill. Speaking to the media, Major Sareen outlined the local schedule:
A mock drill will be conducted from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Dussehra Ground, Ranjit Avenue.
This will be followed by a city-wide blackout from 8:00 PM to 8:30 PM.
The blackout will cover most of the city, with exemptions granted only to the airport and shopping malls. Major Sareen urged residents to strictly follow the guidelines issued by the administration to ensure public safety and the effectiveness of the drill.
- During the blackout, residents are advised to
- Switch off all household and office lights.
- Avoid going onto rooftops.
- Stay indoors.
- If driving, turn off headlights and safely park vehicles along the roadside.
Punjab Civil Defence authorities have also instructed all districts to submit an Action Taken Report after the exercise, which will be compiled and forwarded to the Government of India for assessment. These directives have been issued with the approval of the Special Director General of Police, Home Guards and Civil Defence, Punjab.
“This drill is a proactive step to ensure both our systems and citizens are prepared to handle any real-life emergencies,” said Major Amit Sareen. He urged the public to cooperate fully with the administration and take the exercise seriously.