SRINAGAR: Amid rising tensions with Pakistan, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has asked all states and Union Territories to boost civil defence efforts under the Civil Defence Act, 1968. In a letter titled “Augmentation of Civil Defence Measures in the States/UTs,” the Ministry referred to Section 11 of the Rules, which allows states to take urgent action to protect people, property, and essential services during hostile attacks.
The advisory follows Thursday night’s drone and missile strikes by Pakistan in Jammu and Jaisalmer, most of which were intercepted by Indian air defence systems.
The MHA urged states to use Section 11 to give Civil Defence Directors emergency powers, including the ability to use local authority funds quickly for emergency measures.
The letter explained that, in such situations, state governments can take necessary steps to protect citizens and infrastructure, and that local funds should be prioritised for such actions over other responsibilities.
Officials emphasised the importance of local readiness to reduce damage.
