Context:

In response to escalating tensions with Pakistan following a deadly attack in Kashmir, the Indian government has mandated civil defense drills across much of the country. These drills are designed to prepare the public for potential military conflict, including testing air raid sirens and instructing civilians on handling blackouts and evacuations. The situation has intensified since gunmen killed 26 people in Indian-administered Kashmir, an attack India attributes to Pakistan, though Pakistan denies involvement. Exchanges of small-arms fire have occurred at the border, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been actively consulting military leaders, hinting at possible military action. The drills are particularly focused on 244 districts identified as vulnerable, with recent activities already taking place near the border, especially in Kashmir, involving civilians and schoolchildren in preparedness exercises.

Dive Deeper:

• India's government has ordered civil defense drills across the country as tensions with Pakistan rise, following an attack in Kashmir that left 26 dead, which India attributes to Pakistan's involvement.

• The drills are designed to prepare civilians for potential military conflict, including testing air raid sirens and teaching how to navigate blackouts and evacuations, reflecting a serious approach to the looming threat.

• Since the attack, small-arms exchanges have occurred along the India-Pakistan border, and Indian officials, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, have been actively discussing possible military responses.

• India accuses Pakistan of harboring terrorists responsible for the Kashmir attack, while Pakistan denies any involvement and has vowed to respond to any Indian military strikes.

• The home ministry's directive targets 244 districts deemed vulnerable due to their location near the border or coast, requiring comprehensive preparedness drills in these areas to bolster civilian readiness.

• In Kashmir, where tensions are particularly high, recent drills have involved schoolchildren practicing duck-and-cover techniques and civilians preparing bunkers for potential airstrikes.

• The situation remains volatile, with military and civilian preparations underscoring the gravity of the potential conflict between these nuclear-armed neighbors.