India has launched a major humanitarian assistance mission named Operation Amistad to support earthquake-hit Venezuela, which has been devastated by powerful tremors killing nearly 600 people and injuring thousands. Under Operation Amistad, India dispatched an army field hospital along with over 35 tonnes of relief supplies, medicines, and essential medical equipment.
The mission name “Amistad,” meaning friendship in Spanish, reflects India’s commitment to standing with Venezuela during this disaster.
IAF Airlifts Medical Aid Under Operation Amistad
As part of Amistad Operation , two C-17 heavy lift aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) transported urgent humanitarian assistance to Venezuela. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed the deployment, stating that India remains committed to supporting the people of Venezuela in this difficult time.
The aid includes a fully equipped Indian Army field hospital and more than 35 tonnes of relief materials under Operation Amistad, aimed at strengthening emergency medical response on the ground.
BHISHM Cubes and NDRF Teams Deployed
The Amistad mission also includes two BHISHM (Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita and Maitri) Cubes. These modular medical units function as rapidly deployable mobile hospitals designed to save lives during the critical “golden hour” after disasters.
Also read : India Hub-and-Spoke aviation model Begins with First International ‘Easy Connect’ Flight
Massive Earthquake Devastation in Venezuela
Venezuela has reported severe destruction following two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitudes. The death toll has reached 589, with 2,980 people injured, according to official figures.
The second quake, the strongest in more than a century, struck just a minute after the first and was followed by over 200 aftershocks, severely hampering rescue operations across the region.
Global Rescue Efforts Continue
Alongside Amistad Operation , international rescue teams from Switzerland, El Salvador, Mexico, and the Netherlands have joined ongoing search and relief operations in Venezuela.
India’s swift response through Operation Amistad highlights its growing role in global humanitarian assistance and disaster response cooperation during major international crises.