New Delhi: India has initiated ‘Operation Brahma’ to extend humanitarian assistance to Myanmar in the wake of a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake. The first shipment, carrying 15 tons of relief supplies, was delivered to Yangon on Saturday by an Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft. The consignment includes essential supplies such as tents, blankets, sleeping bags, food packets, hygiene kits, generators, and crucial medications.
India Acts as First Responder
Spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Randhir Jaiswal, announced on social media platform X: “Operation Brahma: India serves as a First Responder to help the people of Myanmar impacted by yesterday’s great earthquake. Yangon has received our first delivery of 15 tons of relief supplies, which include sleeping bags, tents, blankets, food packs, hygiene kits, generators, and necessary medications.”
Myanmar’s Devastation and India’s Aid Efforts
Myanmar’s military authorities have confirmed that the earthquake, which struck on Friday, has resulted in 694 deaths and 1,670 injuries, with numbers expected to rise. The worst-hit region is Mandalay, located near the earthquake’s epicenter. Reports from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) estimate that the death toll could exceed 10,000.
Following the disaster, India swiftly mobilized aid, sending a relief aircraft accompanied by a medical team and a search and rescue crew. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s commitment, stating on X: “India sends the first tranche of urgent humanitarian aid for the people of Myanmar. Blankets, tarpaulin, sleeping bags, hygiene kits, solar lights, food packs, and a kitchen set are all being transported by @IAF_MCC C-130. We will continue monitoring the situation and extend further assistance if needed.”
Indian Embassy Facilitating Relief Efforts
The Indian Embassy in Myanmar is actively coordinating with local authorities to expedite the distribution of aid. The embassy has also urged Indian nationals in Myanmar to contact the emergency helpline for any assistance.
Prime Minister Modi Assures Support
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern over the disaster’s impact on Myanmar and neighboring Thailand. He assured immediate assistance, stating, “I’m worried about the circumstances in Thailand and Myanmar after the earthquake. I’m praying for everyone’s health and safety. India is prepared to help in whatever way it can. We have requested officials to remain vigilant and coordinate with the governments of Thailand and Myanmar.”
Myanmar Appeals for International Assistance
The earthquake has left a trail of destruction across Myanmar, with tremors felt as far as Bangkok, Thailand, and Yunnan province in China. The military regime in Myanmar has formally requested international aid, highlighting the extensive casualties and infrastructural damage.
Aftershocks and Ongoing Crisis
Since the initial tremor, Myanmar has experienced at least 14 aftershocks, the most significant being a 6.7-magnitude quake that struck just 10 minutes after the first major shock. Other tremors, ranging from magnitudes 3 to 5, have continued to rattle the region, exacerbating damage and hampering rescue operations.
India’s Commitment to Humanitarian Assistance
As Myanmar grapples with the aftermath of the earthquake, India remains at the forefront of relief efforts. Operation Brahma underscores India’s longstanding commitment to regional humanitarian aid, reinforcing its role as a dependable partner in times of crisis. With further aid and support likely to follow, India stands in solidarity with Myanmar during this challenging period.
