India sends supplies to typhoon-hit Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam
- Under Operation Sadbhav, Navy and Indian Air Force have swung into action deploying ships and aircraft to ferry the assistance
Highlights:
- India has launched Operation Sadbhav to provide Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) to the flood-stricken nations of Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam, following severe flooding caused by Typhoon Yagi. The Indian government has pledged $1 million worth of aid to Vietnam and $100,000 to Laos, as per the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
India’s Response: Navy and Air Force Deployments
- The Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force (IAF) have rapidly mobilized resources to deliver the aid.
- Myanmar: India dispatched 10 tonnes of aid including dry rations, clothing, and medicines to Myanmar, delivered onboard INS Satpura on September 15.
- Vietnam: The IAF deployed 35 tonnes of aid, comprising water purification kits, blankets, kitchen utensils, and solar lanterns.
- Laos: The aid package included 10 tonnes of materials, such as generators, mosquito nets, and hygiene supplies.
C-17 Globemaster Aircraft Deployed for HADR
- The IAF’s C-17 Globemaster aircraft, renowned for their large cargo capacity, were tasked with delivering aid to Vietnam and Laos. The Hindan Air Force Station coordinated the efficient loading and dispatch of materials.
Impact of Typhoon Yagi
- The death toll from Typhoon Yagi in Vietnam has climbed to 233, as more bodies were discovered in landslide-affected areas. The typhoon originated in the South China Sea and became a Category 5 cyclone with wind speeds of 223 kmph. It caused devastation across Southeast Asia, displacing millions.
Myanmar’s Flood Relief Efforts
- In response to severe flooding in Myanmar, India’s Eastern Naval Command collaborated with the Eastern Fleet to prepare HADR aid. The Navy’s operation included overnight loading of essential items onto a naval warship destined for Yangon.
India’s Role as a First Responder
- The MEA highlighted that India was among the first responders to the crisis, continuing its tradition of contributing to HADR efforts within the ASEAN region under its Act East Policy. This reinforces India’s commitment to assisting neighboring countries in times of disaster.
Solidarity with Southeast Asia
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his sympathies to Vietnam’s Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh following the typhoon’s landfall, reaffirming India’s support for the affected nations.
Prelims Takeaways:
- C-17 Globemaster aircraft
- India- Vietnam relations