The Indian Army contingent deployed in Venezuela under Operation Amistad used mini drones to deliver medicines and laboratory reports to a 69-year-old earthquake survivor, Zunilde Silva, who had difficulty moving within the field hospital. The innovative solution was devised by the Shatrujeet Brigade, employing a customised drone-based delivery system to transport blood test reports, prescriptions and essential medicines between departments, ensuring timely care without requiring the patient to move.
Innovation in humanitarian aid
According to the Indian Army, “Rising to the challenge, the innovative minds of Shatrujeet Brigade employed a customised drone-based delivery solution within the hospital. The drone transported blood test reports, prescriptions and essential medicines between departments, ensuring timely care without requiring the patient to move.” The Army added, “When mobility was a challenge, technology carried care to the patient. This seamless integration of technology and empathy reflects the Indian Army’s commitment to finding innovative solutions in the service of humanity.”
Medical care for elderly survivors
Another patient, a 79-year-old survivor, was rescued from a collapsed building with a fractured leg and suffering from peripheral arterial disease. Delayed access to medical care led to a severe arterial ulcer and intense pain. The medical team stabilised her fracture, initiated advanced wound care and established daily follow-up treatment, providing specialised medical support and renewed hope for recovery.
Operation Amistad winding down
The Indian Army contingent has commenced de-induction from Venezuela following the successful completion of its Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief mission. The field hospital was set up at the National Hippodrome Institute in La Rinconada, Caracas, treating more than 1,900 people. The Venezuelan foreign ministry thanked the Indian rescuers on its official X handle, stating, “The humanitarian mission set up a field hospital at the National Hippodrome Institute in La Rinconada, Caracas, a space where more than 1,900 people were treated.”
Rapid deployment
Elements of the 60 Para Field Hospital, part of the Agra-based 50 (Independent) Parachute Brigade, were mobilised on June 26. The Indian Air Force deployed two C-17 heavy-lift aircraft to ferry the team and equipment over 14,000 kilometres across Africa and the Atlantic in 23 hours. The composite task force established a fully operational field hospital by June 28, providing critical medical care in close coordination with local authorities.
Venezuelan government farewell
The Venezuelan government bid farewell to 41 doctors and paramedics from the Indian Army, who arrived on June 27 as part of international brigades after the double earthquake of June 24. The mission exemplified the Indian Army’s commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
