Operation Amistad: India sends rescue team, relief supplies, medical aid to Venezuela

India on Friday launched Operation Amistad, a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) mission to support Venezuela after the devastating earthquakes that claimed hundreds of lives and caused widespread destruction across the South American nation.

As part of the operation, two Indian Air Force C-17 Globemaster aircraft departed for Venezuela on the morning of June 26 carrying humanitarian aid, medical supplies and a specialised rescue contingent to assist local authorities in ongoing relief and rescue efforts.

According to an official statement, the relief mission includes a 41-member team comprising experienced rescue personnel and medical professionals. The contingent will work alongside Venezuelan authorities in search and rescue operations, emergency medical care and humanitarian assistance in the worst-affected areas.

The humanitarian package includes a self-sufficient Indian medical task force, an Indian Army Field Hospital unit equipped with HADR pallets and medicines, 30 tonnes of relief supplies, six tonnes of medicines and medical equipment, and two BHISHM Cube portable hospitals designed for rapid deployment during disaster response operations.

'THE MISSION REFLECTS INDIA'S COMMITMENT TO EXTENDING ASSISTANCE'

The government said the mission reflects India's commitment to extending assistance to countries affected by natural disasters and humanitarian crises. It described the initiative as a gesture of solidarity with the people and government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela during a period of immense hardship.

The Ministry of External Affairs expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the earthquakes and wished a speedy recovery to the thousands of people injured in the disaster.

"India stands shoulder to shoulder with the Government and the people of Venezuela during this difficult period," the statement said, adding that New Delhi remains in close coordination with Venezuelan authorities and is prepared to provide additional assistance if required.

The deployment comes as international rescue teams continue to arrive in Venezuela following the powerful earthquakes, which have left hundreds dead, thousands injured and caused extensive damage to homes, public infrastructure and essential services. Relief operations remain underway, with emergency responders racing to locate survivors trapped under debris and provide medical care and humanitarian assistance to affected communities.

Operation Amistad marks India's latest overseas humanitarian relief mission, reinforcing its role as a first responder in international disaster relief efforts.

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With inputs from Shivani Sharma