India has sent 15 tonnes of relief supplies to Myanmar following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake. Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledged full assistance to both Myanmar and Thailand. The dispatch includes various essential items, with emphasis on regional cooperation in disaster relief highlighted at the upcoming BIMSTEC summit.
On March 28, 2025, the Indian Air Force dispatched approximately 15 tons of relief supplies to the earthquake-affected regions of Myanmar. The shipment, which departed from Air Force Station Hindon aboard a C 130-J aircraft, included crucial items such as tents, sleeping bags, blankets, meals, water purifiers, hygiene kits, solar lamps, generator sets, and essential medicines including antibiotics and syringes, among others.
Following the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar and Thailand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured “all possible assistance” for both nations. This commitment was made shortly after the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that Prime Minister Modi would attend the 6th BIMSTEC summit set for April 3-4 in Bangkok, Thailand.
In response to the earthquake, Prime Minister Modi expressed his concerns, stating, “India stands ready to offer all possible assistance” and instructed relevant authorities to remain at the ready and coordinate with both Myanmar and Thailand. Following the disaster, the Ministry of External Affairs emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in disaster relief.
Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary (East) of the Ministry of External Affairs, underscored the need for collaboration in managing natural disasters, highlighting the extreme weather incidents that frequently challenge the BIMSTEC region. He emphasized that coordinating humanitarian assistance remains a priority for India.
The forthcoming BIMSTEC summit marks a significant moment, being the first in-person meeting of the leaders from the seven member countries since the pandemic began. The last physical summit was held in Kathmandu in 2018, with the latest virtual meeting occurring under Sri Lanka’s leadership in 2022. Notably, this summit follows developments in Myanmar, including the coup in February 2021 and recent civil unrest in Bangladesh.
The earthquake has rendered the summit even more pivotal, as Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that India is currently assessing damage reports in Myanmar and will identify the specific assistance requirements needed. He remarked that India has consistently been the “first responder” in the region during such natural calamities.
In summary, India has promptly responded to the recent earthquake affecting Myanmar and Thailand by sending substantial relief supplies. Prime Minister Modi’s commitment to provide assistance reflects India’s readiness to support its neighbors in times of crisis. The upcoming BIMSTEC summit aims to address regional cooperation in disaster management, further highlighting the importance of solidarity in the face of natural disasters.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
