Chandigarh, May 31 -- Haryana government is set to conduct a state-wide civil defence exercise, named "Operation Shield," on May 31, across all 22 districts to enhance the state's emergency preparedness and response capabilities.

The drill will begin at 5pm and it is being organised under the guidance of the Union ministry of home affairs (MHA) to simulate critical incidents such as air raids, drone attacks, and other wartime scenarios in the light of current national security concerns.

A controlled blackout of 15 minutes will be observed from 8 pm to 8.15 pm near vital installations, with the exception of essential emergency services such as hospitals, fire stations, and police stations.

According to additional chief secretary (ACS-ho...