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RCB Crowned IPL Champions After 18 Years in Thrilling Victory Over Punjab Kings

Date: June 4, 2025
Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
Result: Royal Challengers Bengaluru beat Punjab Kings by 6 runs

After 18 long years of heartbreak, near-misses, and relentless hope, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have finally done it — IPL champions 2025! In an electric final that went down to the wire at Chennai’s Chepauk Stadium, RCB held their nerve to defeat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by just 6 runs, scripting a fairy-tale ending to a campaign led passionately by the ever-iconic Virat Kohli.

A Final Worthy of the Trophy

Coming into their fourth IPL final (after losses in 2009, 2011, and 2016), RCB carried the emotional weight of years of unfulfilled promise. But this time, they turned up with steel in their spine and clarity in their minds.

RCB Innings: 178/6

RCB won the toss and opted to bat first on a slightly sluggish Chepauk pitch. Their innings was anchored — fittingly — by Virat Kohli, who played a composed knock of 63 off 47 balls, guiding the innings through its ups and downs. The middle-order chipped in with crucial cameos — Glenn Maxwell (28 off 16) and Rajat Patidar (32 off 21) provided much-needed momentum, while Dinesh Karthik’s late flourish helped push the score to a competitive 178/6.

Punjab’s bowlers, especially Kagiso Rabada and Harshal Patel, kept things tight, but failed to completely choke the flow of runs in the death overs.

PBKS Innings: 172/8

Chasing 179, Punjab Kings started strong with Shikhar Dhawan and Jonny Bairstow putting up a solid 62-run opening stand. However, once Bairstow fell to Mohammed Siraj in the 7th over, the momentum began to shift.

RCB’s bowlers were sensational in the middle overs — spinners Karn Sharma and Glenn Maxwell applied the brakes, and wickets fell at regular intervals. Despite a fighting half-century from Liam Livingstone (54 off 33), Punjab stumbled in the final overs.

With 12 needed off the last over, Yash Dayal held his nerve and delivered a spectacular final over under immense pressure, giving away just 5 runs and taking a key wicket to seal the game.

Virat Kohli: The Redemption Story

No one deserved this moment more than Virat Kohli. After years of carrying the weight of expectations — both as captain and senior player — Kohli finally lifted the IPL trophy. The emotion on his face said it all: tears, joy, relief, and pride.

“This moment is beyond words. We’ve waited so long — the fans, the players, the franchise. It’s not just a trophy, it’s a reward for all those years of faith,” said Kohli in the post-match presentation.

Player of the Match:

Virat Kohli – 63 (47) & inspirational leadership.

Player of the Tournament:

Mohammed Siraj – for his consistent impact with the ball throughout the season.

Celebrations Erupt in Bengaluru

Back home, the city of Bengaluru erupted in celebration. From MG Road to Indiranagar, fireworks lit the sky, and fans poured into the streets chanting “Ee Sala Cup Namde” — finally turning the viral slogan into reality.

A New Era for RCB

With this long-awaited victory, RCB have finally shed the tag of “underachievers.” It’s not just about winning the title — it’s about rewriting history, silencing doubters, and celebrating the journey of a team that never gave up.

Congratulations, RCB. The crown is finally yours. 

Pochampally Ikkat: A Tradition in Transition

Pochampally: The Looms of Legacy and the Future of Ikkat Weaving
Nestled in the heart of Telangana, the town of Pochampally is world-renowned for its mesmerizing Ikkat patterns and exquisite handwoven sarees. Often dubbed as the “Silk City of India”, Pochampally’s weavers blend tradition and precision in a complex textile art that has earned a Geographical Indication (GI) tag and global recognition.

The Step-by-Step Process of Making a Pochampally Ikkat Saree

  1. Collection and Preparation of Yarn
    The process begins with sourcing cotton or silk yarns, typically procured from mills in nearby towns like Hyderabad or Warangal.

Degumming and Bleaching: For silk, the raw yarn is degummed and bleached.

Drying: The cleaned yarn is dried before dyeing begins.

  1. Designing and Marking the Pattern
    Pochampally’s magic lies in its “tie and dye” resist technique. Patterns are designed on graph paper, and each color and section is meticulously calculated.
  2. Tying the Yarn (Resist Dyeing)
    This step, called “Bandhana”, involves:

Tying sections of yarn tightly with threads to prevent dye penetration.

These areas remain undyed during the dyeing process, creating intricate patterns.

  1. Dyeing the Yarn
    Yarns are dipped in dye vats (using natural or synthetic dyes).

The process is repeated for multiple colors, drying and retying in between.

This phase demands immense precision, as the final pattern must align perfectly when woven.

  1. Warping and Loom Preparation
    Once dyed, yarns are set up on the warp beam (longitudinal threads). The loom is then calibrated manually to match the design specifications.
  2. Weaving the Fabric
    Using pit looms or frame looms, weavers interlace the dyed yarns into complex, colorful patterns.

The weft (horizontal threads) and warp (vertical threads) need to match precisely.

Each saree can take 7–10 days depending on the complexity of the design.

Challenges Faced by Pochampally Weavers
Despite the beauty and demand of their craft, Pochampally weavers face multiple hardships:

  1. Declining Profits
    Middlemen often take the lion’s share of profits.

Fluctuations in raw material prices (especially silk) impact earnings.

  1. Lack of Market Access
    Limited reach to national and international markets.

Dependence on government exhibitions or state-run emporiums.

  1. Labour-Intensive Process
    The intricate dyeing and weaving process is time-consuming and physically taxing.

Younger generations are migrating to urban jobs, leading to a decline in skilled artisans.

  1. High Cost of Modernization
    Power looms and automatic dyeing machines are costly.

Many weavers cannot afford to invest without external help.

Financial Support: Loans and Schemes
The government and cooperative societies have introduced various aids:

  1. Weaver Credit Card (WCC) Scheme
    Offers loans up to ₹2 lakhs at subsidized interest.

Helps in purchasing raw materials, looms, and other necessities.

  1. Mudra Loans
    Offered under Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana.

Enables micro-financing for artisan-led enterprises.

  1. Cooperative Societies and DWCRA Groups
    Help in bulk procurement, marketing, and fair pricing.

Provide weavers with basic wages and shares in profits.

  1. Handloom Weavers Comprehensive Welfare Scheme
    Covers insurance, health, and pension benefits for registered weavers.

Innovative Ideas to Boost Productivity and Sustainability
To keep the legacy of Pochampally alive, a blend of traditional skill and modern innovation is key.

  1. Digital Design and CAD Tools
    Use of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools for pattern-making.

Helps weavers replicate and innovate faster with fewer errors.

  1. Solar-Powered Looms
    Reduces dependency on erratic power supply.

Cuts energy costs and boosts working hours.

  1. E-commerce and Direct-to-Customer Models
    Platforms like Amazon Karigar, GoCoop, and personal websites enable weavers to reach global buyers.

Eliminates middlemen and improves profit margins.

  1. Skill Development and Youth Training
    Government and NGOs offer training in dyeing, modern weaving techniques, and digital literacy.

Attracts younger generation to continue the craft.

  1. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Practices
    Adoption of natural dyes, organic cotton, and water-recycling units for dyeing processes.

Appeals to environmentally conscious consumers globally.

Conclusion: Weaving a Brighter Future
Pochampally’s Ikkat is more than just fabric—it’s a tapestry of culture, patience, and artistry. With appropriate financial backing, modern infrastructure, and greater visibility, the skilled hands of Pochampally can continue weaving not just sarees but also a stronger future for their community.

The Legacy Weaver: Biography of Ramesh Ramanadham

Ramesh Ramanadham

Crafts Revivalist | Textile Designer | Natural Fibres Expert | Handloom Advocate

Ramesh Ramanadham is a celebrated Indian designer, crafts revivalist, and subject matter expert with over 37 years of pioneering work in handlooms, handicrafts, natural fibres, and natural dyes. Deeply rooted in tradition and driven by innovation, his mission is to revive, restore, and sustain India’s rich artisanal legacy, while creating sustainable livelihoods and socially connected ecosystems for craftsmen.

Core Contributions & Expertise

  • Spearheading the revival of naturally coloured cottons to uplift Khadi, restoring its traditional processes and equipment.
  • Revived the 400-year-old handmade paper industry in Aurangabad with INTACH.
  • Leading the holistic revival of Cheriyal Dolls, an ancient craft of Telangana, focusing on eco-friendly materials, story-based narratives, and sustainable market strategies.
  • Engaged with over 36,900 individuals through seminars and workshops, spreading awareness about India’s cultural heritage in crafts.
  • Empanelled designer with NIMSME, and a regular speaker at national and international platforms.

Pioneering Product Innovations

Ramesh holds the distinction of being the first in India (specifically combined Andhra Pradesh in the 1990s) to commercially develop several unique fabrics and applications, including:

  • Cotton-Jute, Cotton-Flax, Cotton-Linen blends in Single and Double IKKAT
  • Kalamkari prints on Madras checks, brushed fabrics, upholstery, and knitted fabric
  • Introduction of eco-textiles like vegetable-dyed handlooms, Katari Wool, Cotton-Lycra, Cotton-Wool blends, and others.
  • Extensive experimentation with natural fibres like Ramie, Banana, Pineapple, Mesta, Sisal, and wild grasses.

Social Impact

  • Conducts monthly workshops on languishing crafts and natural dye techniques.
  • Supported over 2,800 artisan families across India during the pandemic with ration and safety kits.
  • Worked with student and artisan communities across NIFT, NID, IITs, and craft clusters nationwide.

Early Journey & Legacy

Beginning his journey in 1987 with flavoured potato chips, Ramesh pivoted to handlooms after witnessing weavers’ distress. He co-founded Leela Handlooms, later transitioning to R S Krafts in 2015 — a tribute to his great-grandfather, Ramanadham Ramalingam Sr., who was honoured by King George V at the British Empire Exhibition in 1924 for his weaving prowess and community work (including building the Ramanadham Canal in Kandukur, Prakasam District).

Recognition & Awards

  • Vishisht Seva Puraskar on the Centenary of Dr. Marri Chenna Reddy
  • Honoured by the Telangana Government in 2022 as “Eminent Personality in Handlooms and Handicrafts”
  • Recipient of the IDEA Asia Award (2020)

Global & Collaborative Engagement

Worked with leading international brands such as Guess Jeans, Diesel, Camel, Grape, and Zuzka, bringing traditional Indian crafts to a global audience.

Media & Web Presence

Featured in multiple media outlets:

Bringing Colour Back to Cotton: Ramanadham Ramesh’s Revival Journey

Cotton is the most versatile and widely used fiber in textiles. Bharatavani has introduced cotton to the world. India is the largest exporters of handlooms to the world. We were exporting finest muslins of different shades to the globe till the advent of industrialisation. Most of the fabrics were naturally dyed using our traditional dyeing methods and a specific small portion of it was naturally coloured cotton, where in the cotton fibere attaines colour naturally by birth from the plant only. We had several naturally coloured cottons that ruled the market earlier. Unfortunately we lost ground over the last century. Inspite of that the naturally coloured RED cotton sustained for a very long duration, but now even that is losing ground quickly. Gollaprolu Red cotton and Konda Patti from srikakulam area are well known red cotton varieties struggling to sustain their stand in present world as the versatile definition of KHADI has changed. Center of this shift is Ramanadham Ramesh, a craft revivalist and eco-conscious farmer from Hyderabad, who is bringing indigenous coloured cotton back into the spotlight.

Ramesh cultivates 12 varieties of native Indian cotton. Unlike genetically modified hybrid cotton, desi (indigenous) cotton varieties are resilient, require less water, and do not need heavy chemical fertilizers or pesticides. They are naturally pest-resistant to a greater extent and better suited for organic farming. He has RED – 8 varieties, GREEN – in stabilising process and YELLOW – Preemptive stage. He says there are many other shades available, but he is not holding at present.

His efforts go beyond farming. Ramesh is actively promoting the traditional and sustainable desi cotton wicks for oil lamps to making hand-spun yarn for a healthy living. he demonstrates how every part of the cotton plant can be valuable.

To revive this traditional crop, Ramesh distributes native cotton seeds to interested farmers and provides them with the knowledge to grow these crops organically in a mixed cultivation method. His mission is not just agricultural—it’s cultural and ecological. He believes that reviving desi colourd cotton can give required impetus to the dwindling village-based traditional hand spun, hand woven khadi industries, create employment, and encourage eco-friendly lifestyles.

His work has gained attention for showing how traditional practices can align with modern sustainability goals in the present day requirement of minimalist eco conscious lifestyle. With increased awareness and support, desi cotton could play a major role in reducing environmental impact while uplifting rural economies.

Contact for seeds and guidance:
📞 Ramanadham Ramesh – 94400 55266.
Email: [email protected]

Mulam Santha May 17th 2025

CSR Memorial Foundation-Gramabharathi

11th “Mulam Santha”

🗓 Saturday, 17 May 2025
⏰ 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
📍 Marri Krishna Hall, Tarnaka, Hyderabad

Why visit?

Safeguard your family’s health while supporting nature, dairy traditions, literature, craftsmen and indigenous livelihoods—all in one vibrant marketplace.

Market Highlights

  • Ippa Laddu (mahua-flower sweets) & chilled millet ice-cream
  • Farm-fresh mangoes, native seeds, terrace-garden kits & organic bio-fertilisers
  • Wood-pressed ippe (mahua) oil and mind-boosting “verri” sesame oil
  • Pure desi-cow ghee, chenengaaku & wild-sesame powders
  • Cooling bael-fruit and nannari (sarsaparilla) drinks
  • Rare premium rock candy (dhaga mishri)
  • Chemical-free soaps, herbal tooth powder & natural cosmetics
  • Laddus, murukku & biscuits made from desi rice and millets
  • Eco-friendly household cleaners
  • Naturally farmed turmeric, kumkuma, chillies and more
  • Hand-woven saris, fabrics, shirts, towels, dhotis, mosquito nets & cosy blankets
  • Khadi and traditional “Gollabhama” hand-loom saris & garments
  • Nutritious cow-based desi-seed/millet meals
  • FREE “Dava Chai” – caffeine-free herbal tea brewed from 15+ medicinal plants
  • Panchagavya & Ayurvedic remedies with expert consultations

Special Programmes

  • Chief Guests
    • Dr P. V. Rao – Former Dean, PJTSAU; Chairman, Ekalavya Grameena Vikas Foundation
    • Sri T. Nagaraju – Natural-farming master trainer, Basampalli
  • Felicitation
    Honouring Guruswamy Balakrishna for completing a foot pilgrimage from Kashmir to Kanyakumari with sacred cow Ridhi Gomata.

Moolam Santa: Food · Health · Environment · Ethics · Culture

Event proudly supported by Krishna Reddy Garu, Suryakala Garu (Grama Bharati), Malleshyam Garu & Lingam Goud Garu.

Special thanks to the dedicated volunteers from Badruka College for their invaluable support in making the 11th “Moolam Santa” a success

Come, reconnect with your roots!

Kids Summer Camp 2025 – A Joyful Success!

🌞 Kids Summer Camp 2025 – A Joyful Success! 🌞

We are thrilled to share that the Kids Summer Camp 2025, held at Marri Krishna Hall, Vijayapuri Colony, Tarnaka, was a grand success!

For 15 fun-filled days (April 28 to May 14, 2025), children between the ages of 5 to 12 joyfully participated in a variety of engaging, screen-free activities — away from phones, TVs, and laptops for at least 3 hours a day!

Camp Timings: 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Sunday: Holiday

✨ Activities Included:

  • Yoga 🧘‍♂️
  • Art & Craft 🎨
  • Reading Sessions 📚
  • Personality Development 💬
  • Indoor Games 🎲
  • …and much more!

We are happy to announce that the camp concluded successfully with a certificate distribution for all participating kids, along with special Mother’s Day gifts! 💐

A Special Thank You To:

🙏 Devaki Madam, Kasthuri Madam, and Nurjhahan Madam and Shaik Mastan ali sir for their inspiring sessions and continuous support.
🙏 Krishna Reddy Sir for his unwavering support throughout the camp.

Thank you to all the parents for believing in us and giving your children a chance to explore, learn, and grow in a fun and nurturing environment.

Thalassemia Awareness Run at T-Hub: A Step Toward a Thalassemia-Free India

On May 13, 2025, the T-Hub was abuzz with energy and purpose as more than 400 enthusiastic youngsters, along with several Thalassemia-affected children, came together for a noble cause – to raise awareness about Thalassemia and its prevention. The event, the “Backathon 2025,” aimed to educate and encourage people to take proactive steps in the fight against this genetic blood disorder.

The run was graced by the esteemed presence of Mr. Jayesh Ranjan, IAS, who served as the Chief Guest. His participation underscored the importance of community involvement and support in efforts to combat Thalassemia. We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Mr. Ranjan for his unwavering commitment to such meaningful causes.

A special mention goes to two incredible individuals who, despite personal challenges, made time to be part of the event. First, our sincere gratitude to @⁨+91 93471 66528⁩ for showing up and standing strong with us despite being unwell. Your presence was a testament to your dedication. Additionally, @⁨+91 98480 93106⁩ sir, who traveled just to be a part of this event for a few minutes despite a hectic schedule, your warm wishes and support meant a lot to us.

This event could not have been possible without the quiet yet powerful support of a dedicated group of people who have been part of this journey since 2016, both directly and indirectly, and through the Blood Warriors initiative since 2020. Your individual commitment has been the driving force behind every step we’ve taken, and continues to inspire our collective efforts.

We would also like to extend our deepest gratitude to Gayathri Ma’am, Aditi Ma’am, Tapadia Sir, and Dhiraj, who have been the backbone of our mission. The continued support from Rotary and all of our partners has truly been invaluable. You all have been co-passengers in this journey, and we cannot thank you enough for your unwavering support.

The event not only served as a platform to raise awareness but also provided an opportunity for early detection of Thalassemia. Over 140 samples were collected for free Thalassemia testing, furthering our goal of making sure that more individuals are aware of their health status. This gesture of free testing, paired with the awareness run, highlights the importance of both prevention and detection in the fight against Thalassemia.

As the event concluded, the energy and determination displayed by everyone present were palpable. It was evident that every step taken during the run, every voice raised in support, and every drop of effort shared was a powerful reminder that together, we can make a difference.

Congratulations to everyone involved in organizing this event for making it a huge success. It was well-attended and well-organized, a testament to the dedication of the team behind it. Moving forward, I propose that we organize this event again in three months, to keep the momentum going and continue building awareness. Let’s make “Backathon” a recurring event – a brand that symbolizes our commitment to creating a Thalassemia-free India.

Thank you once again to everyone who participated and supported the Backathon 2025. Your presence and involvement have taken us one step closer to our shared dream of a Thalassemia-free future. Let’s continue to work towards prevention, one step, one drop, and one life at a time.

With deep gratitude,
Blood Warriors

TCS Secures Premium Office Space in Hyderabad with Rs 4.37 Crore Monthly Lease

In a major move marking its continued expansion in Hyderabad, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), one of the largest IT service companies globally, has secured a significant commercial lease agreement. The company has leased a state-of-the-art building in Hyderabad’s Nanakramguda area for a monthly rent of ₹4.37 crore. This strategic move comes as part of TCS’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its office presence in one of India’s leading technology hubs.

Prime Location, Long-Term Commitment

The property, Paradigm Rajapushpa, is a Grade-A commercial building developed by the Rajapushpa Group, spanning an impressive 10.2 lakh square feet (sq ft). This expansive office space is situated in the city’s vibrant Business District, home to a thriving ecosystem of top-tier companies such as Wipro, ICICI, Infosys, and Broadridge.

The deal is a 15-year lease agreement, set to commence on October 1, 2024, and TCS has agreed to a rent of ₹43 per sq ft for the leased space. As part of the agreement, the rent will undergo a 12% escalation every three years, ensuring that the space remains a high-value asset for both TCS and the property developers over time.

Additionally, TCS has paid a hefty upfront deposit of ₹26.2 crore, which covers approximately six months’ worth of rent. This substantial deposit underscores TCS’s commitment to long-term growth in the city and the broader region, reinforcing Hyderabad’s position as a critical hub for the IT industry.

Robust Office Space Market in Hyderabad

The office real estate market in Hyderabad continues to thrive despite the potential challenges posed by a significant supply pipeline. According to industry data, the city currently holds a substantial 28 million square feet (msf) of vacant office stock, the highest among the top seven cities in India. Despite this high vacancy rate, the demand for office space in Hyderabad remains robust.

In fact, the city recorded an impressive 2.7 million square feet (msf) of absorption in Q1 2025, marking a 17% year-on-year increase. This strong demand trend, even amid rising supply, indicates that Hyderabad continues to be a favored destination for businesses seeking scalable, state-of-the-art office spaces.

Changing Dynamics: Rent and Vacancy Rates

Interestingly, the average rent in areas like Nanakramguda has remained relatively stable, hovering around ₹70 per square foot in recent months. This figure contrasts with TCS’s lease rate of ₹43 per square foot, suggesting that TCS has secured a competitive deal in a market that’s seeing both rising rents and a significant number of available spaces.

While some may view the large amount of vacant stock in Hyderabad as a sign of oversupply, experts believe that it is a reflection of the city’s rapidly growing infrastructure and ongoing development. The upcoming supply of commercial office spaces is expected to fuel even more business activity, as companies continue to invest in top-tier locations.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Hyderabad’s Office Space Market

The Hyderabad office market is poised for a dynamic future. While the city holds the highest amount of vacant stock among the top Indian cities, it also has one of the strongest pipelines for upcoming commercial properties. The market’s robust absorption rate, coupled with increasing demand for modern workspaces, suggests that these vacant spaces will eventually be filled by companies eager to establish a presence in the city.

For TCS, the decision to lease a significant portion of Paradigm Rajapushpa for its operations aligns with its ongoing growth strategy. The company’s presence in the city reinforces Hyderabad’s position as a premier IT destination. As more companies follow suit and secure office spaces, Hyderabad will continue to evolve into a major player in the global business ecosystem.

Conclusion

TCS’s recent office lease in Hyderabad highlights both the continued growth of the city’s commercial real estate market and the strong demand for office space in one of India’s leading IT hubs. With a 15-year commitment and substantial upfront deposit, TCS has firmly established its presence in Hyderabad’s rapidly evolving office landscape. As the city continues to expand, both in terms of infrastructure and business activity, the demand for prime office spaces will only intensify, shaping the future of Hyderabad’s commercial real estate sector for years to come.

Operation Abhyaas: Telangana Conducts Massive Mock Drill in Hyderabad After 50 Years to Boost Civil Defence Preparedness

📅 Date: May 7, 2025
📍 Location: Hyderabad, Telangana
⏰ Time: Sirens sounded at 4:00 PM

For the first time in over five decades, Hyderabad conducted a large-scale civil defence mock drill under Operation Abhyaas, aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness across the city. Coordinated across multiple departments and involving active public participation, the operation was a landmark event in the region’s approach to crisis management and emergency response.

🔔 When the Sirens Rang

At precisely 4:00 PM, warning sirens echoed across Secunderabad, triggering the start of the operation. Within moments, emergency response units sprang into action. Fire engines blared, ambulances rushed in, and personnel in full gear moved into position, simulating a real-time disaster situation. Though the public had been informed, the drill’s scale and execution made the simulation feel intense and authentic.

👥 Who Was Involved?

The drill involved a coordinated response from various emergency and support agencies, including:

  • National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)
  • Telangana Fire and Emergency Services
  • Hyderabad Police
  • Civil Defence Units
  • Health Department
  • Municipal Workers and Traffic Police

🧪 What the Mock Drill Included

Operation Abhyaas was more than just a fire drill—it simulated a multi-dimensional urban disaster scenario. Here’s what was executed:

🏢 Scenario: Residential Building Emergency

  • A mock situation was created where a residential building was “hit” by a sudden disaster—possibly an earthquake followed by a fire.
  • Residents were instructed to evacuate using stairwells while avoiding elevators, following real emergency protocol.

🚒 Rescue Operations

  • Firefighters simulated extinguishing the blaze on multiple floors using high-pressure hoses and fire ladders.
  • NDRF personnel conducted search and rescue operations in smoke-filled areas using breathing apparatus and thermal imaging devices.

🚑 Medical Response and Casualty Handling

  • On-site triage zones were established.
  • Medical staff treated “injured” volunteers with mock wounds.
  • First responders performed CPR, bandaging, and stretcher evacuations.

🧯 Hazardous Material Containment

  • A leak simulation tested the response to chemical hazards.
  • Teams in hazmat suits demonstrated proper sealing, decontamination, and evacuation procedures.

🚨 Crowd Management and Public Communication

  • Police controlled bystander crowds and managed traffic diversions.
  • Public announcements were made using megaphones and speakers, guiding people on where to go and how to stay safe.

🎯 Why It Matters

The primary goal was to evaluate Hyderabad’s preparedness for various emergency scenarios, including:

  • Natural disasters (earthquakes, floods)
  • Industrial and chemical accidents
  • Terrorist attacks or armed conflict
  • Fires and building collapses
  • Mass casualty events

🏢 Local Highlight: Operation Sindoor at Evelon Apartment

Running alongside Abhyaas was Operation Sindoor, a community-centric drill conducted at Evelon Apartment, Hyderabad. This drill emphasized public involvement and practical training for residents.

🔧 Key Mock Drill Activities at Evelon Apartment:

  • Evacuation Drill: Residents were alerted and guided through timed evacuation procedures.
  • First Aid Training: Medical officers taught basic CPR, wound care, and how to assist injured neighbors.
  • Fire Safety Demonstration: Residents learned how to use fire extinguishers, break glass safely, and identify emergency exits.
  • Disaster Simulation: Simulated power cuts, blocked exits, and injured dummies made the situation feel real.
  • Coordination with Authorities: NCC and SDRF personnel worked side by side with residents and building security.

👥 Agencies Involved in Operation Sindoor:

  • Fire Department
  • National Cadet Corps (NCC)
  • State Disaster Response Force (SDRF)
  • Medical Services
  • Hyderabad Police
  • Electricity Board

🧠 Key Lessons and Takeaways

  • Preparedness saves lives: Both drills highlighted the value of proactive training.
  • Community involvement is crucial: Residents are the first line of defence during any emergency.
  • Speed and coordination matter: The smoother the coordination among departments, the more effective the response.
  • Public awareness is power: Education on emergency tools, escape plans, and basic first aid is essential.

🌐 A New Chapter in Civil Defence

Operation Abhyaas and Operation Sindoor signal the beginning of a new era in India’s civil defence strategy—one that blends top-down planning with grassroots participation. Hyderabad has demonstrated that with the right preparation and people-focused training, a city can transform itself into a resilient, responsive, and resourceful urban community.

Emergencies don’t come with a warning—but preparedness can make all the difference. Hyderabad just proved it.