In light of ongoing Indo-Pak hostilities, marked by Pakistan’s continued proxy war through repeated terror strikes in India and India’s firm response against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoJK, the Ministry of Home Affairs has instructed Civil Defence Mock Drills across 244 districts in bordering states. These drills adhere to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) set by the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA).
As part of this initiative, students are trained in emergency preparedness, including taking cover under desks during crises and responding effectively in low-visibility conditions when the hooter is activated. The campaign also emphasizes the importance of emergency kits, identifying safe zones, and maintaining essential supplies—ensuring schools and higher education institutions (HEIs) are equipped for any unforeseen situations.
General Instructions to Ensure Preparedness and Protection
- Stay Alert:
- Regularly follow credible sources for updates from the Ministry of Home Affairs, local authorities, and disaster management agencies. For instance Delhi education institutions should follow Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) https://ddma.delhi.gov.in/ and Directorate of Education, Delhi https://www.edudel.nic.in/
- Avoid sharing unverified information circulating on social media that could cause harm or confusion.
- Prepare an Emergency kit: Ensure you have a ‘Go-Bag’ with:
- Important documents in waterproof covers
- Basic first aid kit and essential medications
- Drinking water and non-perishable food for 72 hours
- Flashlight, extra batteries, power banks
- Cash in small denominations
- Basic tools such as knife, tape, rope etc.
- Emergency contact list
- Know Your Safe Zones:
- Be aware of the nearest shelters, safe rooms, and evacuation routes in your area.
- Home Preparedness: Ensure your home is stocked with
- Food Supplies such as dry ration, ready to eat meals etc.
- Secure all doors and windows.
- Fire extinguisher
- Maintain an emergency contact list at a visible spot.
- Regularly review your family’s emergency plan.
- Guidelines for Students
- Listen attentively to your teachers during any emergency.
- Stay calm and avoid pushing or running.
- If instructed to evacuate, do so in an orderly manner.
- Know the assembly points and follow the designated routes.
- Instructions for Teachers
- Maintain composure and provide clear instructions to students.
- Ensure all students are accounted for using attendance lists.
- Use the school’s communication system for official instructions.
- In case of lockdown, secure classrooms by locking doors and keeping students away from windows.
- If evacuation is necessary, guide students to assembly areas calmly.
- Refrain from using mobile phones unless necessary for emergency communication.
- For Parents and Guardians
- Familiarize yourself with the school’s safety policies.
- Ensure the school has your updated contact information.
- Reinforce the importance of listening to teachers during emergencies.
- Stay connected with official school communication channels.
- Mental and Emotional Support
- Students are encouraged to express their thoughts and emotions with teachers or counsellors. · Parents are advised to talk to their children about safety in a reassuring manner.
Your active participation and unwavering support are vital in safeguarding our children during emergencies. Stay calm, stay prepared, and remember— together, we can overcome any challenge with resilience and unity.
Courtesy: Dr Sudha Acharya, Principal, ITL Public School, Dwarka Delhi
