The Indian Army contingent in Venezuela, as part of ‘Operation Amistad,’ has set up a field hospital to offer urgent medical aid to those affected by a recent earthquake. The operation was initiated to assist Venezuela after twin earthquakes on June 24 led to over 1,400 casualties and extensive damage. India’s humanitarian aid, including a field hospital unit, relief supplies, medicines, and medical equipment, arrived in Venezuela to support ongoing post-earthquake relief efforts.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed confidence in the assistance provided, emphasizing the importance of the field hospital unit, relief supplies, and medical equipment in aiding the earthquake-affected population. The Indian Embassy in Cote d’Ivoire highlighted the mission’s scope, detailing the transit of relief materials and medical support via two Indian Air Force C-17 aircraft en route to Venezuela. The Indian contingent, consisting of 41 personnel, including medical officers, is capable of delivering emergency medical care, trauma management, surgical support, and essential healthcare services to those impacted by the earthquake.
The team carried six tonnes of medical supplies and humanitarian relief materials, with one aircraft transporting a BHISHM Cube under India’s Aarogya Maitri Project. The deployment of the medical contingent under Operation Amistad underscores India’s commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, showcasing its readiness to provide timely support to friendly nations during crises. Meanwhile, Venezuelan authorities reported a rising death toll of 1,450 from the earthquakes, along with numerous injuries and families affected by the disaster.
