DisasterRelief – India Launches Operation Amistad to Deliver Emergency Aid to Venezuela
DisasterRelief – India has launched a large-scale humanitarian mission to assist Venezuela after devastating earthquakes caused widespread destruction, sending military aircraft, medical experts and emergency supplies to support rescue and recovery operations.
India Sends Emergency Relief Mission to Venezuela
India on Friday initiated Operation Amistad, dispatching two Indian Air Force C-17 Globemaster aircraft carrying a specialised Army medical team, emergency healthcare equipment and humanitarian assistance to earthquake-hit Venezuela. The mission reflects India’s continued commitment to providing rapid disaster relief to countries facing humanitarian crises.
The deployment includes a 41-member contingent from the 60 Para Field Hospital of the Indian Army. The team consists of nine medical officers along with trained healthcare personnel capable of delivering emergency treatment, trauma care, surgical support and other critical medical services to survivors affected by the disaster.
Medical Team Equipped for Immediate Response
The relief package includes nearly six tonnes of medical supplies and humanitarian aid provided by the Ministry of External Affairs. Along with the medical contingent, India has also transported a BHISHM Cube under its Aarogya Maitri Project to strengthen emergency healthcare infrastructure on the ground.
The BHISHM Cube is an indigenously developed modular hospital system designed for rapid deployment during emergencies. Built using 72 portable units, it can become operational in approximately 12 minutes and is capable of treating around 200 patients, including those requiring surgery. The portable facility is equipped with ventilators, X-ray and ultrasound systems, defibrillators, an operation theatre, a mini intensive care unit, as well as independent oxygen and power support, enabling medical teams to function even in challenging disaster conditions.
Government Highlights India’s Humanitarian Commitment
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced the launch of the mission through a post on X, stating that the two Air Force aircraft had departed with urgent assistance to support Venezuela’s ongoing earthquake relief efforts. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to standing with the Venezuelan government and its people during this difficult period.
The Additional Directorate General of Public Information also confirmed that the Army’s medical contingent had left India aboard the two transport aircraft to begin relief operations overseas.
Long-Distance Airlift Requires Multiple Refuelling Stops
The humanitarian mission involves an exceptionally long journey of nearly 14,300 kilometres between India and Venezuela. Since the operational range of a C-17 Globemaster is significantly shorter than the total travel distance, the aircraft will make scheduled refuelling stops in friendly countries during the journey. Officials indicated that India currently lacks the air-to-air refuelling capability needed for such an extended nonstop mission.
Earthquakes Leave Widespread Damage Across Venezuela
The emergency deployment follows two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude that struck northern Venezuela. The twin disasters have claimed at least 235 lives, while more than 4,300 people have sustained injuries. Authorities have warned that the death toll may increase as rescue teams continue search operations in affected regions.
The Venezuelan government has declared the impacted areas disaster zones and has initiated efforts to establish a reconstruction fund aimed at rebuilding damaged infrastructure and supporting displaced communities.
International Support Expands Relief Operations
India’s assistance comes shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed condolences over the loss of lives and assured Venezuela of every possible support. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez acknowledged India’s offer and expressed appreciation for the solidarity extended during the crisis.
The United States has also launched parallel humanitarian assistance, with transport aircraft from the United States Southern Command participating in relief operations. Named after the Spanish word for “friendship,” Operation Amistad further strengthens India’s growing reputation as a dependable first responder during international humanitarian emergencies.