PM Modi Assures Help to Myanmar in Earthquake Aftermath
Published: April 2, 2025 | 01:17 PM
In the wake of the catastrophic 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar on March 28, 2025, claiming more than 3,100 lives and injuring thousands, India has promptly offered humanitarian assistance to its neighbor. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing deep sorrow and solidarity, has extended India's unwavering support through a comprehensive relief operation named
Operation Brahma.
PM Modi’s Statement of Support
"India stands with the people of Myanmar during this time of immense suffering," PM Modi declared during a press briefing in New Delhi. He also conveyed his condolences directly to Myanmar's junta leader, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, pledging medical, logistical, and structural support. Modi emphasized India’s ongoing commitment to its
“Neighbourhood First” policy,
underscoring that this is not just a diplomatic move, but a humanitarian imperative.
Operation Brahma: India's Relief Initiative
Under Operation Brahma, the Indian Army, in coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), deployed over 300 personnel to Myanmar’s most affected regions. These include the Mandalay, Bago, and Magway divisions. Multiple field hospitals were set up within 48 hours of the quake, equipped to handle trauma injuries, emergency surgeries, and maternal care.
Airlifted Supplies and Strategic Aid
India dispatched over 60 tonnes of relief material in the first phase, including high-protein food packets, temporary shelters, water purifiers, and sanitation kits. Indian Air Force C-17 Globemaster aircraft played a key role in transporting this aid. Additionally, satellite imaging teams were activated to assess the structural damage and identify critical zones for deployment.
International Collaboration at BIMSTEC Summit
During the BIMSTEC Summit held in Bangkok just two days after the earthquake, PM Modi met with Myanmar's leadership. Discussions centered around regional solidarity, with India assuring long-term assistance for reconstruction efforts. The summit also prompted further pledges from Sri Lanka and Thailand, influenced by India's early action and leadership in the region.
Restoration of Infrastructure and Utilities
As reports indicate massive damage to roads, bridges, hospitals, and power infrastructure in Myanmar, India’s Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has committed engineering teams and mobile power units to assist in restoring connectivity. These teams are working jointly with Myanmar engineers, often under extreme conditions, to ensure essential routes and services are reinstated.
Tech and Satellite Support
ISRO’s Earth Observation satellites have been leveraged to deliver real-time imagery to aid mapping and relief targeting. This satellite data has proven critical in deploying relief efficiently and avoiding aftershock-prone zones. India has also offered to assist in rebuilding communication systems via BSNL’s emergency response telecom kits.
Community Education and Awareness
India’s relief teams, including volunteers from the Indian Red Cross, have initiated awareness programs on post-quake safety, disease prevention, and trauma counseling. Special attention is being given to children orphaned or displaced by the disaster. Educational kits and mobile libraries are being distributed across makeshift shelters.
Global Praise for India’s Timely Action
International observers, including UN agencies, have lauded India’s proactive response. The UN Humanitarian Office