India's humanitarian assistance under Operation Amistad has arrived in earthquake-hit Venezuela, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar confirmed on Sunday. The consignment includes a field hospital unit, relief supplies, medicines, and medical equipment aimed at bolstering ongoing post-earthquake relief efforts.
Details of the Aid Delivery
Two Indian Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircraft completed a demanding 23-hour flight from Delhi to Caracas, covering an aerial distance of over 14,000 km. The aircraft landed at Maiquetia International Airport, Caracas, carrying 66 tonnes of humanitarian aid, including an Indian Army field hospital, over 35 tonnes of relief supplies, medicines and medical equipment, and two BHISHM Cubes.
The Indian Air Force stated that this transoceanic deployment reaffirms India's growing role as a responsible first responder and a reliable humanitarian partner.
Government Statements
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar shared the update in a post on X on Sunday, saying, “Indian assistance reaches Venezuela. Confident that the Field Hospital Unit, relief supplies, medicines and medical equipment, will bolster ongoing post-earthquake relief efforts in the country. #OperationAmistad.”
The Ministry of External Affairs had earlier stated on June 26, “India stands shoulder to shoulder with the government and the people of Venezuela during this difficult period.” Under Operation Amistad, two IAF C-17 Globemaster aircraft carrying relief supplies and a 41-member rescue team departed on Friday to assist ongoing relief and rescue efforts.
Earthquake Impact
The 7.2 and 7.5-magnitude earthquakes that struck Wednesday evening were among the strongest in Venezuela in more than a century and were felt throughout the region. The death toll from the two powerful quakes rose to 1,430 on Saturday. The number of casualties may climb, with thousands reported missing.
India's swift response demonstrates its capability to deliver hope across continents whenever called upon, according to the Indian Air Force.
