Why is India’s humanitarian aid in response to Venezuelan earthquake called Operation Amistad?

India has launched Operation Amistad, a Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief mission, in response to the devastating earthquake in Venezuela that has led to extensive loss of life, injuries and widespread destruction.

“India stands shoulder to shoulder with the government and the people of Venezuela during this difficult period,” the Ministry of External Affairs said.

Two powerful earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, struck on Wednesday (June 24, 2026) evening. Among the strongest recorded in Venezuela in more than a century, the tremors were felt across the region. The death toll has risen to 920, with 3,360 persons reported injured.

What is Operation Amistad?

The name is derived from the Spanish word amistad, meaning friendship, reflecting India’s solidarity with the South American nation in a time of crisis.

India and Venezuela share traditionally warm relations, rooted in cooperation in the energy sector and a shared commitment to the Global South, the MEA said.

According to the MEA, the two countries have long enjoyed cordial ties, with convergence of views on major international, political and economic issues. Along with strengthening bilateral engagement, they have cooperated in multilateral forums.

Humanitarian relief

In a statement issued on Friday, June 26, 2026, the MEA said two Indian Air Force C-17 aircraft departed for Venezuela on the morning of June 26, carrying humanitarian assistance and a 41 member rescue team to support relief and rescue efforts.

“The relief consignment included a self-reliant Indian medical task force, an Indian Army Field Hospital unit with HADR pallets and medicines, 30 tonnes of relief supplies, six tonnes of medicines and medical equipment, and two BHISHM Cube portable hospitals,” it said.

The 41 member team, comprising experienced rescue personnel and medical professionals, is expected to work closely with Venezuelan authorities in search and rescue operations, emergency medical care and humanitarian assistance in the affected areas.

India-Venezuela ties

During her five-day visit to India beginning June 4, 2026, Delcy Rodriguez, Acting President of Venezuela, described India as a “trusted partner”. Venezuela is presently undergoing a period of political transition and economic transformation following the capture of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife by the United States.

The MEA said India and Venezuela continue to enjoy strong and friendly relations, supported by expanding cooperation in energy, trade, health and development partnerships.

Venezuela has also supported India’s call for reform of international institutions and has backed India’s bid for permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council for nearly a decade.

Bilateral economic engagement

On economic ties, the MEA noted that bilateral trade between India and Venezuela stood at $678.94 million in 2025-26. It also highlighted growing cooperation in the energy sector, with Venezuela emerging as the third largest supplier of crude oil to India in May 2026.

Venezuela, a major energy producer, has been importing pharmaceuticals from India to address shortages and high costs from western suppliers.

The MEA further pointed to existing partnerships, including ONGC Videsh Limited’s joint venture with Corporacion Venezolana del Petroleo, along with cooperation in pharmaceuticals, AYUSH, digital solutions and cultural exchanges.

Venezuela has also shown interest in enhancing cooperation in the critical minerals sector and attracting investment. Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has suggested expanding economic engagement beyond the oil sector, including adoption of the Indian Pharmacopoeia to facilitate pharmaceutical trade, and exploring opportunities in the automobile sector.