India, April 23 -- Authorities in Punjab and parts of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) will conduct civil defence air raid and blackout mock drills on April 24 in Punjab and on April 23 and 24 in Jammu and Kashmir to assess emergency preparedness, strengthen inter-agency coordination and familiarise citizens with response protocols during crisis situations.

Officials have emphasised that the exercise is routine and urged the public not to panic.

In Punjab, a statewide drill will be carried out on April 24 at 8pm in all districts, following directives from the ministry of home affairs (MHA). The exercise will begin with an air raid warning siren featuring a high-low pitch for two minutes. This will be followed by a simulated blackout in areas ide...