India’s Operation Brahma is in full swing, providing rescue and relief aid to Myanmar following a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake. The locals have hailed India’s timely intervention, expressing their gratitude for the support during this time of distress.
A Myanmar local, Hussain, spoke to ANI and praised India’s humanitarian efforts, stating, “We got a great sense of relief when you came. You (Indians) are very hardworking people. We are very happy and at peace. We have benefited a lot from the arrival of NDRF. May God shower blessings upon India and its leadership!”
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been at the forefront of the rescue mission. NDRF crew member Kavita Singh highlighted the difficult conditions they are working under, saying, “There is no possibility of survivors now as several days have passed, and the extreme heat has made rescue efforts even more difficult. We have only been able to retrieve dead bodies.”
Despite these challenges, Singh emphasized the NDRF’s unwavering commitment to the operation, stating that infrastructural damage and harsh conditions have not deterred the team. She also noted that local support has been immense, recalling a moment when a family approached them and said,
“We are very proud and thankful that you have come to help us.”
Another NDRF crew member, Manju Bhati, revealed that a team of 57 members has been deployed to Myanmar, covering 13 different locations for rescue and relief work. However, she acknowledged the difficult terrain, explaining, “In such a small street, neither excavators nor cranes can be used… Everyone is in God’s hands now.”
As part of Operation Brahma, India has deployed both military and humanitarian aid, showcasing its role as a First Responder in the region.
- An Urban Search & Rescue (USAR) Team of 80 skilled NDRF rescuers from Ghaziabad, along with four trained canines, was airlifted in two IAF C-130 Hercules sorties.
- India has delivered 625 metric tonnes (MT) of Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR) material to Myanmar.
- Indian Naval Ships Satpura and Savitri reached Yangon on March 29, delivering 40 tonnes of aid, which was handed over to the Chief Minister of Yangon.
- Indian Navy Ships Karmuk and LCU 52 from the Andaman and Nicobar Command reached Yangon on March 30, carrying 30 tonnes of relief materials, including food, medicines, emergency stores, and drinking water.
Apart from search and rescue operations, Indian Army medical teams have set up facilities to provide critical care. Indian surgeons have already performed two life-saving surgeries, highlighting the medical assistance component of Operation Brahma.
On Tuesday, Lt Gen Myo Moe Aung, overall in charge of Myanmar’s relief operations in Mandalay, visited the Indian medical facility and commended India’s extraordinary efforts in supporting Myanmar during this tragic disaster.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has stated that India remains ready to deploy additional material assistance and resources depending on the evolving needs on the ground.
Operation Brahma underscores India’s commitment to regional humanitarian efforts, solidifying its role as a trusted neighbor and first responder in times of crisis.
