India on Friday successfully concluded Operation Amistad, its humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) mission to earthquake-hit Venezuela, with the return of the Indian contingent after carrying out more than 8,000 medical procedures and laboratory investigations, including over 20 major surgeries, in the Latin American nation.
Scope of the Mission
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the operation was undertaken in close coordination with the Venezuelan government following the devastating earthquakes that struck the country last month. During its deployment, the Indian Army's field hospital provided critical medical care to hundreds of affected people.
Acting President of Venezuela Delcy Eloína Rodríguez Gómez conveyed her gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for India's timely assistance, support and solidarity during the crisis.
Rapid Deployment and Team Composition
On June 26, two Indian Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircraft airlifted a 41-member contingent from the Indian Army's 60 Para Field Hospital Unit to Venezuela. The team included surgeons, anaesthesiologists, orthopaedic specialists, dental surgeons, physicians, paramedics and support staff.
Equipment and Supplies Delivered
The mission also delivered two BHISHM Cubes — India's modular, portable mini-hospitals designed for rapid disaster response — along with six tonnes of essential medicines and medical equipment and 30 tonnes of relief material, including tents, solar lamps, portable water purifiers and generator sets.
Coordination and Impact
The MEA said the Venezuelan government extended full support to enable the rapid deployment and smooth functioning of the Indian medical team, helping it provide emergency treatment to earthquake victims.
Describing the mission as a reflection of the enduring friendship between the two countries, the ministry said Operation Amistad reaffirmed India's commitment to standing by partner nations during humanitarian crises in the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — "The World Is One Family."
