On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, Nagaland demonstrated a proactive commitment to citizen safety and disaster resilience through the execution of a large-scale civil defence exercise and rehearsal codenamed “Operation Abhyaas.” This significant undertaking, mandated by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), spanned across ten key districts of the state – Dimapur, Kohima, Mokokchung, Wokha, Zunheboto, Mon, Phek, Tuensang, Kiphire, and Peren. Emphasizing the importance of preparedness in an increasingly unpredictable world. “Operation Abhyaas” served as a critical assessment of the state’s emergency response mechanisms and inter-departmental coordination, simulating real-world crisis scenarios to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
Statewide Preparedness Exercise Under “Operation Abhyaas” Sweeps Nagaland
In Dimapur, the heart of the exercise unfolded with the Deputy Commissioner’s (DC) office complex serving as the central command and staging area. The selection of the Urban Primary Health Centre (UPHC), Duncan, as the designated temporary hospital and the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) project director premises as the simulated air raid affected zone provided a realistic backdrop for the emergency response teams. The core of the Dimapur drill involved a meticulously staged air raid scenario at the DRDA premises. Here, the swift and coordinated action of the District Fire and Emergency Services, working in conjunction with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), was put to the test. They successful rescue of 27 individuals, including those with minor and critical simulated injuries, highlighted the efficiency of the initial response. The subsequent transportation of the “injured” to the UPHC Duncan, where a temporary medical facility was operational, further simulated the crucial steps in disaster management – triage, immediate care, and resource mobilization. The establishment of a temporary hospital equipped with a mobile medical aid unit at UPHC Duncan showcased the adaptability and readiness of the healthcare system to respond to mass casualty events. The arrival of mock patients via ambulances and the subsequent assessment and treatment by doctors and nurses stress the importance of a well-rehearsed medical response protocol.
Following the mock drill in Dimapur, Deputy Commissioner Dr Tinojongshi Chang addressed a gathering of personnel from various essential departments, including the SDRF, Civil Defence and Home Guards, and the Police. His address emphasized the undeniable necessity of constant preparedness, reminding all stakeholders that the timing and nature of disasters remain unpredictable. Dr. Chang stressed the importance of individual and collective awareness to ensure the effective implementation of the Incident Response System – a crucial framework for managing emergencies. In his subsequent media briefing, Dr. Chang affirmed the success of the mock drill, commending the seamless initiation of rescue operations by all participating officers and departments. While the Assam Rifles were informed about the exercise, their prior commitments unfortunately prevented their participation, highlighting the logistical complexities often involved in large-scale inter-agency drills.
Beyond the immediate simulation, Dr. Chang also addressed pertinent public concerns. Regarding the potential escalation of prices for essential commodities amidst rising tensions between India and Pakistan, he assured that the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) would maintain vigilant monitoring and convene meetings as necessary to address any unwarranted inflation. Furthermore, recognizing the pervasive issue of misinformation in the digital age, he urged the public to exercise caution and seek clarifications before accepting information circulating on social media platforms – a crucial message in maintaining public order and preventing panic during sensitive times. The implementation of a symbolic two-minute “Black out Measure” in Dimapur at 6:30 pm served as a stark reminder of potential real-world scenarios and the need for public cooperation during emergencies. The groundwork for “Operation Abhyaas” in Dimapur was laid during an earlier meeting of the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), where the directives from the MHA were discussed and a comprehensive plan was formulated.
Simultaneously, Kohima district also actively participated in this statewide mock exercise. Led by Deputy Commissioner Kohima, B. Henok Buchem, and Superintendent of Police Teisovise Metha, Kohima’s drill focused on a coordinated air raid precaution scenario, aiming to enhance both disaster preparedness and public awareness. The active involvement of multiple departments under the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) underscored the collaborative spirit of the exercise. The sounding of the first siren at 4:30 pm marked the commencement of simulated emergency operations, followed by a second siren at 6:30 pm, triggered by the DDMA from the Directorate of Information and Public Relations, which initiated a two-minute blackout involving a controlled power shutdown. Strategic locations within Kohima were designated for specific emergency functions: the Capital Convention Centre as the staging area, the Directorate of Social Welfare as the temporary hospital, the Directorate of Higher Education as the demilitarized zone, and the NPSC Office as the simulated air raid-affected zone. Officials in Kohima confirmed the smooth execution of the drill, emphasizing the effective inter-departmental coordination and the positive cooperation received from the public.
In Mokokchung, the mock drill effectively simulated the impact of incoming air raids. The activation of sirens served as a crucial alert mechanism for residents. Throughout the exercise, State War Room officials maintained constant communication, providing hourly updates to the DGCD Control Room in New Delhi. This real-time coordination underscored the importance of seamless information flow during emergency situations.
Wokha district focused its “Operation Abhyaas” drill on a simulated fire emergency, providing a critical assessment of the district’s disaster response capabilities. The exercise resulted in the simulated rescue of nine injured individuals, who received immediate on-site treatment before being transferred to the District Hospital for further care. Tragically, the simulation also included one confirmed fatality, highlighting the potential severity of such events. The drill was a collaborative effort, jointly coordinated by the District Task Force and involving key departments such as Fire & Emergency Services, Police, Medical Teams, DDMA (District Disaster Management Authority), Home Guard & Civil Defence, and SDRF (State Disaster Response Force). Emergency teams successfully extinguished the simulated fire, while rescue operations were expertly led by teams from the Home Guard, Civil Defence, and NDRF (National Disaster Response Force), demonstrating a well-coordinated multi-agency approach to disaster scenarios.
Phek district conducted its mock drill specifically to prepare for a potential air strike. The alert siren was sounded promptly at 4:00 pm from the DC (Deputy Commissioner) office building, marking the official commencement of the exercise. DC Rhosietho Nguori served as the responsible officer overseeing the drill, while the District Commandant, Home Guard, Civil Defence & SDRF led the operational aspects of the simulation.
In Mon town, the “Operation Abhyaas” scenario involved a simulated fire incident at the District Commandant’s Office, triggered by a mock air raid. Rescue teams were tasked with the grim responsibility of retrieving two simulated fatalities. Additionally, the exercise involved the rescue and treatment of two seriously injured individuals, four with moderate wounds, and two with minor injuries. A blackout siren was sounded at 6:30 pm, followed by a coordinated two-minute power shutdown led by the DDMA, simulating essential safety protocols during an air raid.
Tuensang district staged an extensive exercise at the Parade Ground, focusing on critical post-disaster operations. The simulation involved search and rescue teams locating and extricating victims, the establishment of makeshift hospitals to handle casualties, and the setting up of relief camps to provide aid to those affected. The DC Office and a petrol pump were designated as incident sites, adding complexity to the scenario. Following the active phase of the drill, Tuensang also observed a two-minute blackout at 6:30 pm. DC Lithrongla Tongpi Rutsa commended the participants for their swift response and effective inter-departmental coordination.
The mock drill in Peren district centered around simulated air raid damage at the DC’s Office. Emergency response teams swiftly mobilized, successfully rescuing three individuals from the affected area. The simulation also reported two fatalities and five serious injuries, testing the capacity of local medical and rescue services. DC Peren expressed appreciation for the coordinated response demonstrated by all participating agencies. Major Pranav P Subramanian, who served as an observer for the drill, lauded the inter-agency teamwork and efficiency displayed during the exercise.
In Zunheboto, the Civil Defence exercise focused on staging a comprehensive air raid response. The operations were diligently overseen by DC Dharam Raj, ensuring that all protocols were followed and the effectiveness of the emergency response mechanisms was thoroughly evaluated.
Collectively, these Civil Defence Mock Drills conducted across Nagaland under “Operation Abhyaas” underline the state’s proactive stance on disaster preparedness. By simulating realistic air strike scenarios and meticulously testing emergency response systems at the local level, Nagaland is taking crucial steps to enhance the safety and resilience of its communities. The active participation of multiple departments and the coordination with national directives highlight a unified commitment to safeguarding the well-being of the state’s citizens in the face of potential threats.
“Operation Abhyaas” across Nagaland represents a significant stride towards strengthening the state’s disaster preparedness framework. The meticulous planning and execution of these mock drills in districts like Dimapur and Kohima demonstrate a proactive approach to potential crises. By simulating realistic scenarios, identifying areas for improvement, and fostering inter-agency collaboration, Nagaland is building a more resilient society capable of effectively responding to and mitigating the impact of future disasters. The emphasis on public awareness, responsible information consumption, and the monitoring of essential resources further underscores a holistic approach to disaster management in the region. “Operation Abhyaas” serves as a valuable learning experience and a testament to Nagaland’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens.