For the first time in over five decades, India is preparing to execute a large-scale civil defence simulation across 259 locations nationwide. Organized by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), this extensive exercise is designed to evaluate the country’s readiness in the event of a war-like scenario. The announcement comes in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 civilian lives just two weeks ago.
As part of the preparedness initiative, smartphone users across India may hear loud alert tones and receive emergency notifications on their devices during the mock drill scheduled for Wednesday, May 7. While the MHA has yet to issue an official statement confirming these alerts, citizens are strongly encouraged to keep their emergency notifications enabled in device settings.
How to Ensure Emergency Alerts Are Active on Your Smartphone
For Android Users (Android 11 and above):
Open the Settings app on your phone.
Scroll to and select Safety and Emergency.
Tap on Wireless emergency alerts.
Switch on all available alert options to stay informed.
For iPhone Users:
Navigate to the Settings menu.
Select Notifications.
Scroll down to locate the Government Alerts section.
Toggle on Test Alerts to receive critical updates.
The Modi administration has greenlit this drill amid heightened tensions with Pakistan. Following the Pahalgam incident—blamed by India on Pakistan-based militants, a charge Islamabad denies—relations between the two nations have further deteriorated. Pakistan has responded by conducting multiple weapons tests, including launching its Fatah surface-to-surface missile, which boasts a 120 km range.
India has previously trialed its emergency broadcasting capabilities. On September 15, 2024, many users in the Delhi-NCR area received a loud tone along with this test message:
“This is a SAMPLE TESTING MESSAGE sent through Cell Broadcasting System by the Department of Telecommunication, Government of India. Please ignore this message as no action is required from your end. This message has been sent to TEST the Pan-India Emergency Alert System being implemented by the National Disaster Management Authority. It aims to enhance public safety and provide timely alerts during emergencies.”
This nationwide simulation marks a significant advancement in enhancing India’s emergency communication framework and preparedness for response.