As part of the exercise, citizens can receive an emergency alert on their mobile phone, which can be accompanied by a loud sound or vibration. Officials urged people not to panic as this does not mean a true state of emergency. File | Photo credit: Representative photo
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) conducted a nationwide test of the Cell Broadcast Alert System on Saturday (May 2, 2026). This is part of the Government of India’s initiative to create its own dedicated alert system to protect its citizens during national disasters. The test covers Delhi NCR and capitals of all states and union territories, except border areas and states with restricted voting.
During the exercise, citizens may receive an emergency alert on their cell phones, which may be accompanied by a loud sound or vibration. Officials clarified that the alert is only a test message intended to assess the effectiveness of the system and does not indicate any real emergency.
Published – May 2, 2026 12:56 PM IST
