NEW DELHI: India has stepped up its relief efforts in Myanmar following the devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake, with two C-17 aircraft carrying 60 tonnes of relief material and a 118-member Indian Army Field Hospital Unit landing in the country.
The Indian Army’s medical team includes specialists in Women and Child Care services and is part of Operation Brahma, India’s humanitarian mission to support Myanmar in the wake of the disaster. The Indian Army will also set up a 60-bed Medical Treatment Centre to provide emergency care, trauma treatment, and essential medical services to those affected.
The ministry of external affairs (MEA) spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, highlighted India’s commitment to being a first responder in regional crises. “With these, five relief flights have landed in Myanmar today,” Jaiswal stated in a post on X.
In addition to the C-17 aircraft, a C-130 aircraft has also landed in Naypyitaw, carrying 38 personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and 10 tonnes of relief supplies. More support is expected, with two additional C-17 aircraft carrying 60 Para Field Ambulances set to arrive soon.
India’s quick response comes as Myanmar struggles with the impact of the earthquake, which has killed at least 1,600 people and injured more than 3,400. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has warned that the total death toll could exceed 10,000.
