War, terror and the Indian disaster management system

Himachalscape bureau May 7, 2025 3 minutes read

Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source: Internet

Shimla, May 7,

Contents

India, situated in South Asia, has long been recognized as a peace-loving nation and the land of spiritual leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Gautama Buddha, Mahavira, and Adi Shankaracharya—icons of non-violence and harmony. Rooted deeply in the belief that war, whether external, internal, or through acts of terror, leads only to destruction and not development, India has continuously advocated for peace, civil security, and holistic growth.

Despite this peaceful foundation, India’s internal security continues to be tested by cross-border terrorism. Launchpads and terrorist camps operating from Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), allegedly under the protection of the Pakistani establishment, have been a persistent threat. A tragic example of this occurred in April when 26 innocent Indian tourists were brutally killed in a terrorist attack at the Pahalgam tourist site in Jammu and Kashmir. The incident sparked nationwide outrage and condemnation.

In a decisive response, the Ministry of Defence today, on May 7, confirmed the success of “Operation Sindoor”, carried out at midnight. The operation resulted in the complete demolition of nine terrorist launch pads and camps in PoK. This military action underlines India’s commitment to national security and its stand against terrorism.

Simultaneously, to ensure civil preparedness in the face of such hostile scenarios, the Ministry of Home Affairs is conducting a nationwide mock drill, “Operation Abhyas”, at 4:00 PM today. The exercise will take place in selected cities and states, focusing on preparing citizens, school children, and response agencies to act swiftly in case of air strikes or other war-like emergencies.

India’s disaster preparedness framework is overseen by the Disaster Management Division of the Ministry of Home Affairs, which operates on four key pillars. Disaster Prevention – Implementing measures to reduce the risks and effects of potential disasters. Disaster Preparedness – Ensuring readiness through planning, drills, and education. Disaster Response – Coordinating rapid and effective actions during an emergency and disaster rehabilitation – Undertaking restoration and rebuilding efforts post-disaster.

Several institutional bodies work cohesively at various levels to achieve these. National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) – formulates national policies and plans. State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) – manages state-level preparedness and responses. And, district disaster management authority (DDMA) – ensures grassroots-level disaster readiness and coordination.

Equally vital is community participation, wherein local populations are trained and educated about protective measures, evacuation processes, and first aid. Public cooperation strengthens resilience during crises.

Given that both India and Pakistan are heavily populated nuclear-armed nations with modern military capabilities, the possibility of future conflicts cannot be ignored. Hence, civil preparedness becomes a matter of national responsibility. Every citizen must be informed and trained in emergency evacuation procedures, first-aid practices, assembling disaster kits, memorizing emergency contacts, and, where feasible, building or identifying access to underground safety bunkers.

In a world already burdened by numerous humanitarian crises, the United Nations has appealed for de-escalation and dialogue between India and Pakistan to prevent any drift toward a large-scale conflict. As the world marks 80 years since the end of World War II, there is a shared global responsibility to prevent another such catastrophe.

Preparedness, awareness, and unity are our best tools. If citizens act wisely and prepare in advance, the Nation can minimize damage, save lives, and stand resilient against war, terror, and disaster.

The writer is Rajan Kumar Sharma, a professional, Disaster Management expert stationed at the Deputy Commissioner Office, Una Himachal Pradesh.

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The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.

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