India has started Operation Brahma, a massive relief effort, to help Myanmar in the wake of Friday’s deadly 7.7-magnitude earthquake. Significant damage has been inflicted by the calamity; in the Mandalay region alone, 694 people have died and nearly 1,670 have been injured. According to preliminary US Geological Survey estimates, the death toll may surpass 10,000.
Two C-17 planes have touched down in Myanmar with 60 tonnes of aid supplies and 118 men of the Indian Army Field Hospital Unit. In addition to offering services for women and children, this unit will build a 60-bed medical treatment centre that will offer trauma care, emergency surgeries, and critical medical assistance.
Additionally, a C-130 plane carrying 10 tonnes of humanitarian supplies and 38 members of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) touched down in Naypyitaw.
As part of the relief efforts, India has provided tents, sleeping bags, blankets, ready-to-eat meals, water purifiers, solar lamps, generator sets, and necessary medications.
Earlier shipments included a C-130J plane carrying 15 tonnes of aid to Yangon.
40 tonnes of humanitarian goods have been sent to Myanmar by the Indian navy’s INS Satpura and INS Savitri.
India’s First Responder Role
India has demonstrated its commitment to humanitarian assistance by acting pro-actively in response to regional catastrophes. As part of this effort, five relief flights have already touched down in Myanmar. In his message of solidarity with Myanmar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised India’s willingness to offer any support it can during this trying period.
