India has intensified its relief efforts in earthquake-hit Myanmar under Operation Brahma. On Saturday, the country sent two naval ships to assist in rescue and humanitarian aid. Additionally, a 118-member army field hospital unit is on its way to provide urgent medical care to the injured. EAM S. Jaishankar has posted on X, “First tranche of humanitarian aid from India has reached the Yangon Airport in Myanmar.”
#OperationBrahma gets underway.
First tranche of humanitarian aid from India has reached the Yangon Airport in Myanmar.
🇮🇳 🇲🇲 pic.twitter.com/OmiJLnYTwS
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) March 29, 2025
More Ships and Aircraft to Follow
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that two more naval ships would soon depart as part of this mission. The first ship, carrying 10 tonnes of relief materials, left in the early hours, followed by the second one in the afternoon. Both are expected to arrive near Yangon on March 31. Two additional ships, currently stationed at Sri Vijaya Puram under the Andaman and Nicobar Command, will follow soon.
Multiple Aircraft Deployed for Rescue
India launched Operation Brahma in the early hours of Saturday. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar shared updates on X, stating, “@indiannavy ships INS Satpura & INS Savitri are carrying 40 tonnes of humanitarian aid and headed for the port of Yangon.”
According to Jaiswal, one aircraft departed early morning, followed by two more sorties. Additionally, two aircraft carrying the field hospital unit were set to leave from Agra later in the day.
Indian Army’s Medical Task Force Ready for Action
The Ministry of Defence announced that a 118-member team from the elite Shatrujeet Brigade Medical Responders, led by Lieutenant Colonel Jagneet Gill, is ready for deployment. The Airborne Angels Task Force specializes in advanced medical and surgical care in disaster zones.
Furthermore, the Indian Army will set up a 60-bed Medical Treatment Centre. This facility will provide trauma care, emergency surgeries, and essential medical services to support Myanmar’s overwhelmed healthcare system.
India’s Commitment to Immediate Aid
Later in the evening, Jaishankar updated on X, “#OperationBrahma A 118-member Indian Army Field Hospital unit is en route to Mandalay from Agra. The team will assist in providing first aid and emergency medical services to the people of Myanmar.”
Widespread Devastation in Myanmar
A powerful earthquake struck Myanmar and neighboring Thailand on Friday, causing massive destruction. Reports confirm that at least 1,002 people have died in Myanmar. India, which shares a 1,643-km border with Myanmar, swiftly responded to the crisis.
According to Jaiswal, India’s ambassador in Myanmar is currently in Nay Pyi Taw, coordinating relief operations. So far, no casualties have been reported among the Indian community there.
India’s Track Record as a First Responder
India has consistently played a leading role in disaster relief. Jaiswal recalled India’s swift assistance after Cyclone Yagi struck Myanmar last year. He emphasized that the destruction caused by the recent earthquake is far more severe.
He also highlighted the significance of Operation Brahma’s name: “Brahma is the God of creation. As we help Myanmar rebuild after this devastation, this name carries deep meaning.”
India’s Humanitarian Supplies Reach Myanmar
The first relief aircraft, carrying 15 tonnes of essential supplies, left from Hindon Air Force Base in Ghaziabad at 3 AM. It landed in Yangon at 8 AM (IST), where India’s ambassador handed over the supplies to Yangon’s Chief Minister.
The aid package includes:
-
Tents, blankets, and tarpaulins
-
Sleeping bags and solar lamps
-
Essential medicines and food packets
-
Kitchen sets and generators
Meanwhile, two aircraft carrying 80 NDRF search and rescue personnel, equipment, and trained canines are also en route to Myanmar’s Nay Pyi Taw.
PM Modi Reaffirms India’s Support
Soon after the disaster, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Myanmar’s Senior General Min Aung Hlaing. He expressed India’s deep condolences and assured full support. “We stand in solidarity with the government and the people of Myanmar. We will provide all necessary relief and assistance to help them recover from this calamity,” Modi conveyed.
India’s Strong Coordination with Myanmar
As the relief operation continues, India’s Navy is actively working with Myanmar’s authorities for a smooth operation. Jaiswal also confirmed that India’s embassy in Myanmar is maintaining close contact with the Indian community, ensuring their safety and well-being.
India’s Rapid Response to Global Disasters
India has a strong history of providing immediate disaster aid. Jaiswal recalled Operation Dost, launched in 2023 after the devastating earthquakes in Turkiye and Syria. “Being the first responder is part of our policy. When we say Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The world is one family), we mean it and act on it.”
NDRF Gears Up for Critical Hours Ahead
According to NDRF Deputy Inspector General (Operations) Mohsen Shahedi, the next 24-48 hours are crucial for their rescue efforts. The field hospital team, which also participated in Operation Dost, remains on standby for further deployment if needed.
