New Delhi: India has launched Operation Amistad to provide humanitarian assistance to Venezuela after two powerful earthquakes devastated the South American nation, leaving more than 230 people dead and thousands injured. As part of the relief mission, two Indian Air Force (IAF) C-17 Globemaster aircraft departed on Friday carrying an Indian Army Field Hospital Unit and over 35 tonnes of emergency relief supplies.

The assistance comes after twin earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 on the Richter scale struck Venezuela on Wednesday, causing widespread destruction across several regions. Rescue teams continue to search for survivors, while thousands of people remain missing, raising fears that the death toll could increase significantly.

The humanitarian mission underscores India’s commitment to extending support to countries affected by natural disasters under its global disaster relief initiatives.

India launches Operation Amistad

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced the launch of Operation Amistad through a post on social media, confirming that two IAF C-17 transport aircraft had departed with urgent humanitarian assistance for Venezuela.

He said the relief mission includes an Indian Army Field Hospital Unit, medicines, medical equipment and more than 35 tonnes of emergency supplies. The consignment also includes two BHISHM Cubes, portable emergency medical units designed to provide rapid healthcare support during disaster situations.

Jaishankar stated that India remains committed to supporting the Government and people of Venezuela during this difficult period.

Relief mission includes field hospital and BHISHM Cubes

The Indian Army’s Field Hospital Unit is expected to provide immediate medical assistance to earthquake survivors, particularly in areas where healthcare infrastructure has suffered extensive damage.

Among the specialised equipment being transported are two BHISHM Cubes, which are modular emergency medical facilities developed for quick deployment during humanitarian crises. These units are designed to offer life-saving treatment, emergency surgeries and critical healthcare services in disaster-hit regions.

Along with the field hospital, the relief supplies include:

  • Medicines and emergency medical equipment
  • Disaster relief materials
  • Essential humanitarian supplies
  • Two BHISHM Cubes for rapid medical response

The deployment reflects India’s growing capability to undertake international humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations at short notice.

PM Modi expresses solidarity with Venezuela

A day before the relief mission was launched, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences over the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela.

In a message shared on social media, the Prime Minister said he was deeply saddened by the loss of lives and destruction caused by the twin earthquakes.

He extended heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of Venezuela, especially the families who lost loved ones, while wishing a speedy recovery for those injured. He also reaffirmed India’s readiness to provide all possible assistance to support relief and recovery efforts.

Venezuela thanks India for support

Venezuelan Acting President Delcy Rodríguez expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for India’s message of solidarity and humanitarian support following the disaster.

India’s swift response through Operation Amistad further strengthens its reputation as a reliable humanitarian partner during global emergencies. In recent years, India has undertaken several international disaster relief missions by deploying military transport aircraft, medical teams and emergency supplies to countries affected by natural calamities.

With search and rescue operations continuing across Venezuela, the Indian medical team and relief supplies are expected to play an important role in supporting ongoing humanitarian efforts and assisting victims in the aftermath of one of the country’s deadliest natural disasters in recent years.