March 28, New Delhi: Upholding its role as the “first responder” to crises in the Global South and reinforcing its “Neighbourhood First” policy, India has initiated a humanitarian relief effort, named Operation Brahma, to support Myanmar in the aftermath of a catastrophic 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck on Friday.
As part of this initiative, India dispatched an initial consignment of 15 tonnes of relief materials to Myanmar on Saturday. The Indian Air Force deployed its C-130J Super Hercules transport aircraft to facilitate the rapid delivery of aid.
The relief package comprised essential supplies such as tents, sleeping bags, blankets, ready-to-eat meals, water purifiers, solar lamps, generator sets, and crucial medicines, according to officials.
India’s Swift Response
In a series of posts on social media platform X, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed the commencement of Operation Brahma. “#OperationBrahma gets underway. First tranche of humanitarian aid from India has reached Yangon Airport in Myanmar,” he stated.
The relief supplies were formally handed over to Yangon’s Chief Minister, U Soe Thein, by India’s envoy to Myanmar, Abhay Thakur.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, emphasized India’s prompt assistance, highlighting that the country has once again acted as a “first responder” to support those affected by the massive earthquake in Myanmar.
The Earthquake’s Devastation
Myanmar, along with neighboring Thailand, experienced severe destruction as a result of the powerful tremors. The earthquake, centered near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, led to widespread damage, toppling buildings, bridges, and critical infrastructure. Reports indicate that at least 144 people lost their lives in Myanmar alone, with thousands more injured.
Eyewitness accounts described scenes of panic, with residents fleeing as buildings swayed and dust clouds engulfed urban areas. In Thailand, the earthquake triggered significant structural damage, including the collapse of a high-rise under construction in Bangkok.
Prime Minister Modi’s Pledge of Support
Expressing deep concern over the tragedy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to offer solidarity and prayers for the affected people. He reiterated India’s commitment to providing assistance, directing relevant authorities to remain on standby and maintain communication with the governments of Myanmar and Thailand.
“Concerned by the situation in the wake of the earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Praying for the safety and well-being of everyone. India stands ready to offer all possible assistance,” Modi posted on X.
Coordinated Relief Efforts
The Indian Embassy in Myanmar is actively coordinating relief operations to ensure the swift and efficient delivery of aid. The embassy also assured the Indian community in Myanmar of continuous support and shared an emergency contact number for those in need.
Meanwhile, Operation Brahma follows a series of humanitarian missions conducted by India in response to global disasters. Last year, India extended assistance to Vietnam, Laos, and Myanmar under Operation Sadbhav during floods and typhoons. Additionally, India provided relief to Turkey and Syria in the wake of devastating earthquakes through Operation Dost.
Rising Casualties and the Road Ahead
With reports indicating over 1,000 fatalities and thousands injured in Myanmar, the full extent of the devastation continues to unfold. Mandalay, the region closest to the earthquake’s epicenter, has suffered the most severe losses.
As Myanmar struggles to cope with the disaster’s aftermath, India’s Operation Brahma serves as a critical lifeline, reaffirming its commitment to humanitarian assistance and regional solidarity.
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