India launches Operation Brahma, delivers first aid shipment to quake-hit Myanmar

India sent its first tranche of 15 tons of relief materials to earthquake-hit Myanmar on March 29 as part of its “Neighborhood First” policy.

Named “Operation Brahma,” the humanitarian aid was sent by the Indian Air Force’s transport aircraft, C-130J Super Hercules.

The relief materials included tents, sleeping bags, blankets, ready-to-eat meals, water purifiers, solar lamps, generator sets and essential medicines, officials said.

The death toll due to the 7.7 earthquake that struck Myanmar and Thailand on March 28 surpassed the 1,000 mark with nearly 2,400 injured.

The earthquake's epicenter was located near Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city, causing massive damage across various regions.

Meanwhile, Indian authorities stated that this was only the first tranche indicating that more aid would follow.

"Operation Brahma - India acts as a First Responder to assist the people of Myanmar affected by yesterday's massive earthquake. Our first tranche of 15 tons of relief material, including tents, blankets, sleeping bags, food packets, hygiene kits, generators, and essential medicines has landed in Yangon," said Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson at the Ministry of External Affairs.

India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also took to X and published a series of posts, saying,” #OperationBrahma gets underway. The first tranche of humanitarian aid from India has reached the Yangon Airport in Myanmar.”

The relief materials were handed over to the Chief Minister of Yangon U Soe Thein by the Indian envoy to Myanmar Abhay Thakur.

The Indian embassy in Myanmar also said it is coordinating with the concerned authorities for speedy delivery of assistance.

"We are also in constant touch with the Indian community. Reiterate our emergency number for needy Indian nationals:+95-95419602," it posted on 'X'.

Expressing concern over the devastating incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India stands ready to offer all possible assistance to the two countries.

"Concerned by the situation in the wake of the Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Praying for the safety and wellbeing of everyone," Modi said on 'X'.

"India stands ready to offer all possible assistance. In this regard, asked our authorities to be on standby. Also asked the MEA to remain in touch with the Governments of Myanmar and Thailand," he said.

In 2024, India sent its aid through ‘Operation Sadbhav’ to Vietnam, Laos and Myanmar during the floods and typhoons.

This year, India has named its relief initiative 'Operation Brahma' which is part of its broader commitment to humanitarian aid in times of crisis.

India has previously supported Turkey and Syria through ‘Operation Dost’, showcasing it as a reliable partner in global humanitarian efforts.