The Centre has initiated a major project to establish modern air-raid warning systems across India’s vulnerable districts under the Air Raid Warning System (ARWS) programme.
This effort is aimed at ensuring that all 244 districts identified as vulnerable, mostly those near the borders, will be equipped with a standardised, modern, and fully functional warning network to alert civilians in the event of aerial threats such as drones, missiles, and aircraft.
The project is being led by the Directorate General (Fire Service, Civil Defence & Home Guards), a federal agency under the Home Ministry, which is also responsible for recruiting experts from the Indian Air Force to guide the initiative.
Officials have confirmed that former IAF officers with extensive experience in air defence operations, radar systems, and air-raid warning procedures will be roped in to lead the project. These experts will hold a rank not below Wing Commander, equivalent to an Army Lieutenant Colonel, ensuring that the leadership of the programme is backed by seasoned operational knowledge.
The decision to establish this new warning system was taken in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor last year, which highlighted the growing role of drones in modern warfare and the urgent need for civilian air defence warning systems. The training of civilian volunteers will also be revised to incorporate lessons learned from Operation Sindoor, reflecting the evolving nature of aerial threats.
The urgency of the project stems from an internal assessment conducted after a series of drills held on May 7, April 22, and June 30 in 2025, against the backdrop of a looming war with Pakistan following the Pahalgam attack.
The assessment revealed that most existing air-raid warning systems were faulty, with many found to be non-functional. Temporary sirens had to be installed as replacements, and the systems were described as “vintage, old, needed review and done in a slapdash manner.” This highlighted the inadequacy of the current infrastructure and the pressing need for a comprehensive overhaul.
The ARWS project will ensure that the new systems are aligned with the standards outlined in the civil defence manual. Once operational, the systems will provide timely alerts to civilians, enhancing preparedness and reducing vulnerability during aerial attacks.
The integration of modern technology and the involvement of experienced IAF officers are expected to bring a significant improvement in India’s civil defence capabilities. The project also reflects a broader shift towards strengthening homeland security by combining military expertise with civilian preparedness.
This initiative comes at a time when India is reinforcing its border security and air defence measures following the lessons of Operation Sindoor. The establishment of a nationwide air-raid warning network will not only enhance civilian safety but also complement the layered air defence systems already deployed by the armed forces.
By modernising outdated infrastructure and institutionalising professional expertise, the Centre aims to ensure that India’s vulnerable districts are no longer left exposed to aerial threats.
Agencies
