Kohima, April 29, 2026: The Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA) has issued a public advisory ahead of the 8th edition of the Nagaland Emergency Preparedness Exercise (NEPEx), which will be conducted across the state on April 30, 2026. The large-scale exercise is aimed at testing and strengthening the preparedness, coordination, and response capabilities of emergency services, government agencies, and local authorities in the event of a major disaster.
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According to NSDMA officials, the statewide mock exercise will be carried out from 8:00 AM to 12:00 noon and will simulate a major earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale. The scenario has been designed to assess how effectively various agencies respond to emergencies, coordinate rescue and relief operations, and manage disaster situations under realistic conditions.
The annual exercise forms part of the state's ongoing efforts to enhance disaster resilience and ensure that emergency response mechanisms remain effective and well-coordinated. Various departments, emergency responders, civil defence personnel, healthcare services, and district administrations are expected to participate in the exercise.
In addition to the earthquake simulation, a Civil Defence Air Raid/Blackout Mock Drill, code-named “OPERATION NIGHT,” will be conducted later in the day at 6:30 PM. The blackout exercise will take place in ten districts: Dimapur, Kohima, Mokokchung, Wokha, Zunheboto, Mon, Phek, Tuensang, Peren, and Kiphire.
As part of the drill, residents in the identified districts will be required to observe blackout procedures and cooperate with instructions issued by authorities. Citizens have been advised to switch off all non-essential lighting, including lights powered by solar systems and inverters, during the designated period. Vehicle owners have also been requested to turn off their headlights and comply with directions from officials to ensure the effectiveness of the exercise.
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NSDMA emphasized that the mock drills are only preparedness exercises and urged the public not to panic upon hearing sirens or witnessing emergency response activities. The authority stressed that such simulations are crucial for evaluating disaster management systems, identifying gaps in preparedness, and improving response strategies.
The authority further appealed to residents, educational institutions, commercial establishments, and community organisations to actively participate and extend full cooperation to ensure the successful conduct of NEPEx 2026.
Officials noted that strengthening public awareness and community participation remains a key component of disaster preparedness, helping build a safer and more resilient Nagaland capable of responding effectively to emergencies and natural disasters.
